In Sabarkantha, a large group of livestock farmers protested against Sabar Dairy. They were unhappy about low payments for their milk, which they claimed were less than the previous year. The protest turned violent as clashes erupted between police and the farmers. Reports indicate that the farmers threw stones at the police, prompting a police response with batons.
The situation escalated quickly. The police stated that the protesters damaged vehicles and the dairy’s gate. Some police officers were injured in the conflict. Tragically, during the chaos, a man named Ashokbhai from Jinjhva village lost his life.
Former MLA Jashu Patel and 74 others have been named in a police complaint. They are accused of inciting the crowd against the dairy and police. The police have arrested 47 individuals linked to the protests.
According to the police, the protests began on July 14, when farmers gathered at Sabar Dairy to voice their concerns about the low payments. They were reportedly stopped from entering the dairy’s compound to speak to the management. This led to a confrontation with the police.
Farmers and some local farmers joined the protests, demanding fair treatment and better prices for their milk. The police dispatched around 80 officers, including senior officials, to manage the situation.
The protests were marked by slogans against the dairy and the government. Many farmers expressed their discontent on social media, stating they felt cheated. They claimed that the dairy’s management had misled them about payments.
The protests highlight the ongoing struggles of farmers and dairy workers in Gujarat. They argue that they deserve better compensation for their hard work. The situation at Sabar Dairy reflects a larger issue in the agricultural sector, where many farmers feel undervalued and ignored.
In response to the unrest, the Gujarat Congress party condemned the government’s handling of the situation. They expressed sorrow over the loss of life and called for justice for the farmers.
The protests at Sabar Dairy are not just about money. They symbolize a fight for dignity and rights among farmers. As the situation continues to develop, many are watching closely to see how the government will respond to these pressing issues.