Farmers threaten protest over relief for road accident victims

Patiala, April 13

Farmers associated with various organisations have threatened to hold a protest outside the district administrative complex here over the apathetic attitude of the administration towards the family members of those who died in an accident on March 29 at the Thapar institute-Bhadson road chowk.

The protesters led by Ajaib Singh Tiwana, a retired lecturer, alleged that despite being assured of assistance, the administration failed to provide any relief to the victims’ families and those who were injured in the accident.

“The Deputy Commissioner had assured us of providing financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh each to the family members of the deceased, along with Rs 2.5 lakh assistance for those who were injured in the accident. However, nothing has been done yet,” said one of the protesters.

The farmers are also demanding that the site of the accident be re-christened ‘Kisan Shaheed Yadgari Chowk’.

The protesters also accused the police officials present at the accident site of “negligence” and demanded action against them.

“We will hold a march and a protest outside the District Administrative Complex on April 19,” the protesters informed, adding that they would again hold protest at the chowk from April 19.

SDM Patiala Charanjit Singh said, “The farmers had approached us and assurance of assistance upon approval of the state government was given to them. The matter has been sent to the Chief Minister’s office and a response is awaited. The money will be disbursed when it is received.” — TNS