Farmers in Tiruchy to resume indefinite protest over loan waivers

Farmers representing approximately 40 to 50 associations are set to resume an indefinite protest in Tiruchy starting October 22. The demonstrators are demanding a fresh, unconditional announcement regarding a crop loan waiver, a promise made by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay during his election campaign.

Previously, farmers had engaged in a 20-day agitation that was paused after ministers R Vinoth, V Gandhiraj, and S Ramesh requested time to make an announcement, citing upcoming by-elections in Madurantakam and Dharapuram. However, protesters claim that despite the passing of the requested period, no action has been taken.

In a recent attempt to commence a relay fast near Samayapuram, police detained 252 farmers, including four women, following heated arguments. The protesters are also calling on the government to direct cooperative banks to return jewels pledged by farmers as collateral.