Punjab farmers move LHC against govt’s refusal to buy wheat

 Punjab Farmers Seek LHC Intervention Over Stalled Wheat Procurement

Punjab farmers are up in arms against the provincial government's delay in wheat procurement. In a bid to ensure fair compensation for their crops, they have approached the Lahore High Court (LHC) challenging the government's inaction.

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The petition, filed by Farhat Manzoor Chandio, argues that the government is obligated to buy wheat at the announced price of PKR 3900 per maund. However, despite the policy announcement, there has been no movement on initiating the procurement process.

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This delay has left farmers in a precarious situation. Recent rains have damaged crops, forcing them to sell their wheat at lower prices to private buyers, often referred to as the "wheat mafia." Farmers are incurring significant losses due to the government's inaction.

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The petition urges the LHC to intervene and direct the government to:

Begin wheat procurement from farmers immediately.

Take action against the "wheat mafia" that exploits farmers by offering lower prices.

The Punjab government, on the other hand, has yet to make a decision on wheat procurement. This has caused frustration among farmers, who are demanding a clear timeline and a commitment to the announced price.