Farmers March to Mumbai Again: Broken Promises, Renewed Demands

In Maharashtra, farmers have once again taken to the streets, marching from Nashik to Mumbai to highlight grievances that remain unresolved since the historic 2018 Kisan Long March. Organized by the CPI(M) and AIKS, the protest underscores frustration over unfulfilled promises and new challenges posed by policies perceived to favour corporations over cultivators.

The march, involving nearly 40,000 farmers, is expected to reach Mumbai by February 2, 2026. Leaders argue that despite repeated assurances, issues such as land rights, irrigation projects, and rural infrastructure remain neglected. The movement reflects growing discontent in agrarian communities and signals a renewed push for accountability.

Key Highlights

• Unfulfilled Assurances: Farmers allege promises made after the 2018 march remain unimplemented.
• Forest Rights & PESA: Demand enforcement of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) and Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA).
• Irrigation Projects: Call for completion of long-pending irrigation works to address drought-prone regions.
• Education & Jobs: Protest against thousands of vacant posts in Zilla Parishad schools.
• Water Diversion: Oppose plans to divert rainwater from tribal areas to Gujarat, urging use for Marathwada instead.

Sources: Times Now, The Indian Express, Hindustan Times