PTC Web Desk: Farmers will stage a seven-day protest in Chandigarh from September 1 to September 7 to press the government to address their long-pending demands, farmer leader Balbir Singh Rajewal said on Monday.

According to Rajewal, a gathering of farmers will be organised as part of the protest, with arrangements for a permanent sit-in, a stage and a community kitchen (langar) at the protest site.

Protest site finalised after meeting with administration

Rajewal said the Chandigarh administration has allotted a designated location for the protest following a meeting with farmer representatives. The farmers have agreed to hold their sit-in at the allotted site.

The protest is expected to affect vehicular movement on the Airport Road stretch from Jagatpura Lights towards Phase 11. Farmers said they would ill remain seated on the road as part of the demonstration.

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The protest will focus on several issues concerning the farming community. These include demands related to farmers' debt, sugarcane prices and other agricultural concerns.

Rajewal also referred to opposition to the proposed trade deal and said farmers would raise a range of issues affecting their livelihoods and interests.

'Protest will remain peaceful'

Rajewal said the demonstration would be peaceful. He added that the duration of the protest could be extended if the government does not hold meaningful discussions with the farmers.

"If the government agrees to talks, the situation can move forward through dialogue. Otherwise, the farmers will continue their protest," Rajewal said.

The farmers have called for the government to engage with them and address their demands through negotiations.