Farmers protesting over moong procurement, the e-token system and other agriculture-related demands continued their agitation in Bhopal for the second consecutive day on Wednesday, with many preparing to march towards the Chief Minister's residence. Authorities have deployed heavy police forces and imposed traffic restrictions across key parts of the city to prevent any law-and-order issues.

Police have barricaded multiple roads leading to the CM House, causing significant traffic congestion on Narmadapuram Road, Hoshangabad Road, AIIMS Square, Bansal Plaza and nearby areas. In view of the disruptions, Bhopal Collector Priyank Mishra ordered the closure of all government and private schools located along the Narmadapuram Road corridor.

Farmers Continue Sit-in, Cook Dal-Baati at Protest Site

Despite the prolonged protest, farmers continued their daily routine at the demonstration venue. Many who spent the night at the site rested wherever space was available, while others prepared traditional dal-baati for lunch.

The protesters also invited political leaders to visit the venue, share a meal with them and engage in discussions over their demands.

Women participants and young supporters joined the protest by preparing placards and banners carrying slogans in support of the agitation.

'Sadbuddhi Yagya' Held Against Government

Farmers organised a 'Sadbuddhi Yagya' (prayer ritual), saying it was meant to invoke wisdom for the government to address their concerns.

Protesters alleged that while inflation continues to rise, farmers are still not receiving fair prices for their produce. Several participants claimed they are facing severe financial distress due to delayed procurement and inadequate crop prices.

Security Tightened Ahead of CM House March

With farmer groups announcing a march towards the Chief Minister's residence later in the day, police have significantly strengthened security arrangements.

Heavy police deployment has been made near Veer Savarkar Setu and other approach roads leading to the CM House. Government buses have also been stationed near barricades to block any attempt by protesters to move ahead.

Additional Police Commissioner Shailendra Singh Chauhan said elaborate arrangements have been made to ensure law and order while restricting protesters from entering high-security zones.

Farmers Allege Removal of Basic Facilities

Protesters accused the administration of attempting to weaken the movement by removing essential facilities from the protest site.

According to the farmers, water tankers, temporary toilets and other basic amenities were withdrawn. They maintained that despite these difficulties, the agitation would continue until their demands are met.

CM Says Ministers' Panel Will Hold Talks

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said the state government remains committed to resolving farmers' issues through dialogue.

He announced that a committee of ministers has been constituted to hold discussions with the protesting farmers and assured that another round of talks would take place on Wednesday.

The Chief Minister also appealed to protesters to ensure that public life is not disrupted during the agitation.

Students Join Farmers' Protest

The protest witnessed support from students and members of Gen Z, who joined farmers carrying posters and handwritten placards.

A nine-year-old child participating in the demonstration said he had come to support farmers and urged the government to procure moong crops.

Farmers also raised slogans criticising the state government while expressing appreciation for the police personnel managing the protest site.

The agitation is expected to intensify later in the day if protesters proceed with their proposed march towards the Chief Minister's residence.