Panel to meet Haryana CM over farmer murder protests

A mahapanchayat in Hisar has formed a five-member committee to hold talks with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini over the murder of dairy operative Jeevan Kundu. The decision came a day after clashes between police and farmers in Hansi, where protesters demanded the arrest of the prime accused. The panel left for Chandigarh on Sunday to meet the Chief Minister.

The mahapanchayat warned of an indefinite blockade of highways linking Hisar with Chandigarh and Delhi if talks fail. Jeevan Kundu was attacked with sticks and rods on August 4 following a minor dispute and later died. His family has refused to perform last rites until all accused are arrested. The protesters' four key demands include the arrest of the prime accused, a government job for Kundu's wife, financial aid, and withdrawal of cases against farmers.

The All-India Kisan Sabha criticised the Chief Minister and demanded the suspension of the Hansi Superintendent of Police. Ten protesters, including five AIKS office-bearers, were remanded to 14 days' judicial custody. Former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda also condemned the police action.