The EditorWheat Season in Crisis: Cheeka Market Struggles
For the last 18 days, Cheeka grain markets have been in complete chaos. The wheat season began weeks ago. Yet, due to administrative negligence, the system is failing.
Farmers and traders are under pressure. Their sold wheat is still lying in the mandi. The lack of bardana (gunny bags) is slowing down the lifting process. As a result, crores in farmer payments are now stuck.
Payments Delayed, Farmers Suffer Financial Strain
Many farmers like Rampal, Satish Kumar, Raj Kumar, Harvinder Singh, Rajesh, and Ramesh shared their plight.
They’ve been guarding their wheat in the open for over a week. Due to no bardana, the grain remains scattered across the yard.
Despite official claims, farmers say payments within 72 hours are just false promises. Nothing is happening on the ground.
Traders Claim Bias in Distribution of Gunny Bags
Commission agents say there’s foul play. Officials are favoring well-connected traders.
According to them, there is open collusion between agency officials and the mandi association. Those with contacts get bardana. Others are left empty-handed.
One recent case proved this. Hafed received 45 bundles of bardana. Around 150 traders arrived. But only 4 to 5 selected ones got bags. The rest returned with nothing.
Mandi Roads Blocked with Wheat Piles
With wheat not being lifted, huge stacks have built up. Sacks are now blocking roads in and out of the mandi.
Movement is tough. Even walking around has become a problem.
The market committee keeps appealing to clear the way. But the situation remains unchanged. Appeals are not working anymore.
Farmers Demand Action, Not Just Words
Farmers believe officials are just going through the motions. They feel ignored.
They want clear action against those traders who aren’t following rules. They also want fair distribution of bags for everyone.
Market Secretary Promises Strict Steps Ahead
Satbir Rawish, Secretary of the Market Committee, spoke about the issue. He accepted there are problems.
He said notices have already been issued to negligent traders. If the behavior continues, strict action will follow.
Authorities claim they are working hard. But the reality tells a different story.
