Farmers in Ferozepur throw open toll plazas over Land Pooling, Trade Pact concerns
Ferozepur, July 14, 2026: Members of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Ekta Sidhupur) on Monday kept several toll plazas across Punjab toll-free from morning till 4:00 p.m. as part of a statewide protest against the Punjab Government's proposed land pooling policy and the proposed India–US trade agreement.
In Ferozepur, farmers gathered at toll plazas, allowing vehicles to pass without paying toll charges while raising slogans against both the State and Central governments. The protest was organised following a call given by the union to highlight issues they believe could adversely affect farmers' interests.
Farmer leader Ranjit Singh said the agitation was primarily aimed at opposing the Punjab Government's land pooling policy, under which agricultural land may be pooled for planned urban and infrastructure development. The union fears the policy could lead to the loss of fertile farmland, inadequate compensation, and reduced control of farmers over their land. They have demanded that the government withdraw the policy and hold detailed consultations with farmers before implementing any such scheme.
The protesting farmers also expressed concern over the proposed India–US trade agreement, alleging that greater market access for imported agricultural products could expose Indian farmers to unfair competition and adversely impact domestic crop prices and farm incomes. They urged the Centre to safeguard the interests of Indian agriculture while negotiating international trade agreements.
Ranjit Singh warned that if the governments fail to address the concerns of farmers, the union would intensify its agitation in the coming days with larger demonstrations across the state.
The protest remained peaceful, with toll plazas operating without collecting user fees until 4:00 p.m., causing no major disruption to traffic.