Farmers’ unions insist talks with government before calling off nationwide shutdown

Several farmers’ unions have stated that the ongoing nationwide shutdown will continue until formal talks are held with the Government of India and concrete assurances are provided on their key demands. Union leaders said dialogue—not temporary assurances—must come first before any decision is taken to withdraw protest actions across the country.

Representatives from multiple agricultural groups said their demands focus on policy reforms, fair pricing mechanisms, input cost control, loan relief measures, and stronger legal protections for minimum support systems. According to union coordinators, repeated written requests for structured negotiations have been sent, but they are waiting for an official invitation with a clear agenda and timeline.

The shutdown has affected transport services, wholesale markets, and supply chains in several regions, though essential services have largely been kept operational. Protest organizers said the intention is to pressure authorities through peaceful democratic means while avoiding hardship to the general public. Volunteer teams have been deployed in many places to coordinate routes, manage crowds, and ensure emergency movement is not blocked.

Union spokespersons emphasized that farmers are open to compromise if discussions are transparent and outcome-focused. However, they warned that symbolic meetings without follow-up action would not be enough to end the agitation. They are calling for multi-round negotiations involving senior policymakers and subject experts.

Government sources have indicated willingness to engage, but no confirmed meeting schedule has yet been announced. Until then, farmer groups say the shutdown will remain in effect, with further strategy decisions to be taken after internal coordination meetings and feedback from state-level units news as reported.