Congress to Block Agra-Mumbai NH and Other Highways in MP Tomorrow Over Farmers’ Procurement Woes

Congress plans highway jam at seven locations in Madhya Pradesh on May 7 to highlight wheat procurement delays and demand better prices for farmers.

The Congress party in Madhya Pradesh is set to launch a major protest on Thursday, May 7, by blocking key stretches of national highways at seven different places. Senior Congress leader and former minister PC Sharma announced the stir, accusing the state government of failing to manage wheat procurement effectively this season.

According to party leaders, the blockade will affect traffic movement across approximately 747 kilometres in 11 districts, particularly along the busy Agra-Mumbai National Highway. Local authorities have already begun preparations for traffic diversion and security arrangements to minimise disruption.

Procurement Shortfalls Spark Anger

Congress leaders claim the government’s procurement system has collapsed under its own weight. Speaking to reporters in Bhopal on Wednesday, PC Sharma said that in the initial 14 days, only 9.30 lakh metric tonnes of wheat had been procured. Farmers are reportedly struggling with delayed slot bookings, problems in uploading registration documents, and slow payments.

“Basic facilities like drinking water, shade, seating, and toilets are missing at many procurement centres,” Sharma alleged. Many farmers have been forced to wait for days with their tractor-trolleys, eventually selling their produce to private traders at ₹1,800 to ₹2,022 per quintal — well below the expected support price.

Congress Demands MSP and Compensation

The party has demanded that the government ensure farmers receive ₹2,625 per quintal for wheat. It has also asked for the price difference to be paid directly into farmers’ accounts under the Bhavantar Yojana. Congress has raised similar concerns about prices of moong and soybean.

Party workers and senior leaders, including prominent faces from the region, are expected to participate in the protests at multiple sites. The Congress described the action as a necessary step to protect the interests of annadata (food providers).

Government Defends Its Efforts

Madhya Pradesh Food and Civil Supplies Minister Govind Singh Rajput rejected the allegations and highlighted steps taken by the administration. He said the procurement target was initially set at 78 lakh metric tonnes but was later increased to 100 lakh metric tonnes after seeing heavy farmer registrations.

“More than 50 lakh metric tonnes of wheat have already been procured and around 15 lakh slots have been booked,” Rajput stated. He added that the number of weighing scales has been increased and warehouse capacity expanded by 20 percent to ease storage issues. Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav is personally monitoring the process through surprise visits, the minister said.

 BJP Hits Back at Congress

The ruling BJP has accused the Congress of playing politics rather than genuinely helping farmers. Rajput remarked that Congress workers “do not even offer a glass of water to farmers” but are quick to organise road blockades that inconvenience the common public.

BJP state president called on Congress leaders, including former PCC chief Jitu Patwari, to introspect about their past record. He claimed that the present government has introduced schemes like Kisan Samman Nidhi and ensured procurement at minimum support price despite challenges such as gunny bag shortages.

 Public Impact and Traffic Concerns

The planned protests are likely to hit daily commuters, transporters, and emergency services hardest. With the Agra-Mumbai corridor being a vital artery, even partial blockades could cause long queues and diversions. Administration officials have appealed for calm and urged political parties to avoid actions that burden ordinary citizens.

Farmers’ groups have mixed reactions. While some support the demand for better facilities and timely payments, others worry that frequent highway protests disrupt their own supply chains and market access.

As temperatures rise and the rabi marketing season continues, pressure is mounting on the government to speed up procurement and payments. Congress has indicated that Thursday’s protest is part of a larger push and may be followed by more actions if demands are not met.

The coming days will show whether the highway jam leads to constructive dialogue or further political confrontation. For now, Madhya Pradesh’s farmers remain caught between delayed government processes and the promise of better returns.