Farmers will stop rail across the country, SKM calls for peaceful demonstration

New Delhi: The protesting farmers union is going on a nationwide ‘Rail Roko’ agitation for three hours on Thursday against three controversial farm laws.

According to Jagatar Singh Bajwa, spokesperson of the Kisan Andolan Samiti, Ghazipur Border, farmers have planned to hold a peaceful protest between 12 pm and 4 pm. Bajwa said, “We will offer refreshments to the passengers to avoid inconvenience”.

Meanwhile, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), an association of 40 farmers’ unions, has called for peaceful protests, hoping to garner support for the program from across the country. From 12 noon to 4 pm on 18 February, the nationwide ‘Rail Stop’ movement has appealed to all for peaceful protest.

The United Kisan Morcha said, “It is clear that instead of resolving the demands of the current conflict, the BJP is doing its best to counter it and end this movement.” The United Kisan Morcha condemns this attitude of the ruling party and demands that the government resolve the problems of the farmers immediately without any delay. United Kisan Morcha said that it will intensify the struggle and mobilize more farmers in its support.

Increased patrolling on railway tracks
RPF personnel are keeping an eye on the tracks adjoining the border, Singhu border, Tikari border, stations around Ghazipur border like Narela, Anand Vihar terminal, Shahdara etc. Patrolling has been increased on the track here. According to railway officials, rail traffic will run on its own schedule. It is illegal to disrupt rail operations. Action will be taken against the rule breakers in accordance with the rules in association with RPF.

What are the rules
If someone obstructs any kind of obstruction in railway operations, action can be taken against him under the Railway Act. If any kind of baggage is thrown on the train or damage to the track, then there is a provision of punishment up to life imprisonment under Section 150 of the Railway Act.

According to Section 174, if the train is stopped while sitting on the track or keeping something, then there can be two years of jail or fine of Rs 2,000 or both. There is a provision of six months jail or fine of one thousand rupees or both under Section 146, 147 for obstructing the work of railway employees, forcibly entering the railway.