Haryana toll plazas blocked by farmers, khap panchayats demanding arrest in dairy worker's murder

Farmer unions and khap panchayats on Friday blocked toll plazas at multiple locations across Haryana, demanding the immediate arrest of the prime accused in the murder of dairy operative Jeevan Kundu. Protests were held in several districts, with demonstrators also calling for action against all those involved in the attack.

Kundu, a resident of Surya Nagar in Hisar, was allegedly attacked with sticks and rods by a group of men on August 4 following a minor dispute. He later succumbed to his injuries in hospital. His family and supporters have refused to perform his last rites until all accused are arrested, a stand that has drawn support from farmer organizations and local khap panchayats.

Farmer leader Suresh Koth said protests were held at 27 toll plazas across the state, with blockades at 17 locations and vehicles allowed to pass free for three hours at nine plazas. A sit-in protest was also held at a toll plaza in Yamunanagar. However, Hisar Superintendent of Police Siddhant Jain disputed these figures, stating that protests were reported at only five toll plazas in three districts — three in Hisar and one each in Jind and Hansi.

The protesters have alleged that police are delaying the arrest of the prime accused, Ramesh Pandit, citing his purported links with a BJP MLA and political pressure. They have also accused the police of inaction, claiming that an earlier complaint regarding threats to Kundu was ignored. Mr. Koth said the demonstrations were intended to pressure authorities into acting swiftly and impartially.

Police rejected the allegations of political interference. Mr. Jain said seven accused had already been arrested and a Look-Out Circular had been issued against the remaining suspects. He added that ten police teams were conducting raids across Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Bihar, Rajasthan and Punjab to apprehend the remaining accused. A reward of ₹50,000 has been announced for information leading to their arrest.

The protesters have also called for opposition to Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini’s Independence Day programme in Hansi on August 15. “Mr. Saini is not performing his duty as the head of the state. We have given a call to oppose his programme,” Mr. Koth said. Police have not commented on this call.

Meanwhile, Mr. Jain said four police personnel have been deployed to provide round-the-clock security to Kundu’s family. The situation at the toll plazas remained peaceful, with no reports of violence or major traffic disruption beyond the blockades, according to police.

This incident highlights the continuing role of khap panchayats and farmer unions in mobilizing public opinion on local issues, particularly when there is perceived delay in justice. While authorities maintain that legal procedures are being followed, the protests reflect growing unease over law and order in rural Haryana.