Haryana Farmers Stage Statewide Protest Against Parallel Power Licence, Agri DISCOM, Smart Meters

Farmers from several districts of Haryana have taken to the streets in a coordinated protest against the state's parallel power licence, the Agri DISCOM and the rollout of smart meters. The agitation began in the early hours of the day, with groups gathering at major junctions and local markets to voice their concerns.

The core of the farmers' demands is the cancellation of the parallel power licence, which they say has led to higher electricity costs and unfair competition. They also call for the removal of the Agri DISCOM, arguing that it has not delivered on promised subsidies or infrastructure improvements.

In addition, the protestors are demanding that the government halt the installation of smart meters, citing privacy and reliability issues. Local authorities have deployed security personnel to maintain order, but the crowds remain largely peaceful.

The agitation has spread to multiple towns across Haryana, with farmers from both rural and semi-urban areas participating. While the government has not yet issued a formal response, it has acknowledged the farmers' grievances and promised to review the policies in question.