Stars, doctors join protesters

Patiala, February 6

On the call given by farmers’ unions for a nationwide three-hour “chakka jam” today, Punjabi actors, singers, doctors, and teachers came out in large numbers and participated in the roadblocks at various places in the district.

Farmers held protests at 24 places, including the Shambu barrier, in the district. The transgender community also participated in the protest.

Actor Dev Kharoud, Binnu Dhillon and singer Pammi Bai protested near Urban Estate on the Patiala-Chandigarh Highway, while teachers and doctors blocked the road near Passiana village.

Kharoud said: “I am an actor, but my entire family is into farming. The youth should not fall prey to the divisive tactics. Don’t get distracted from our ultimate aim — repeal of farm laws.” Attacking Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pammi Bai said: “The PM is still silent on 175 farmers who lost their lives during the agitation. This insensitivity of the PM is shameful for the country.”

Appealing to the youth, he said: “Farmers’ agitation is peaceful. So, you shouldn’t indulge in any violence at all.” Reacting to the tweets by the Bollywood in response to pop star Rihanna’s post, Binu Dhillon said: “They should have some conscience. It appears that Bollywood stars were pressurised by someone to tweet.”

Meanwhile, government doctors under the “Doctors for Farmers” banner also participated in the protest. Dr Diwan Bhullar at Passiana said: Government schoolteachers under the “Democratic Teachers Front” also took part in the protests. — TNS