Subhendu Ray
The phrase "United we stand, divided we fall" was first said by John Dickinson, one of the founding fathers of the United States. Today, this phrase can be seen in action at the Singhu border, where thousands of farmers from Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana have been peacefully protesting for two months against three farm acts passed by the Indian parliament in September 2020. Despite the lack of adherence to COVID-19 guidelines, no positive cases have been detected among the protesters. The protest has become the largest in human history, with people of different backgrounds and ages coming together in solidarity.
The protest is not without its critics, with some dismissing it as a politically motivated movement to defeat the Modi-led government. However, the Singhu border protest is a testament to India's cultural brotherhood and unity in diversity, which has been compromised by religious intolerance, social inequality, and economic deprivation. The farmers' movement shows a gesture of solidarity and interdependence between groups, extending beyond mere inclusion.
The protesters have shown incredible selflessness and unity, with no shortage of food, shelter, medical aid, and other basic amenities needed for a decent life. Sikh protesters from different parts of Punjab dominate the movement and sweep the roads every hour, keep the makeshift toilets clean, and maintain hygiene while cooking and serving food. Volunteers from across India have come to extend their services for free, providing services like ironing, washing clothes, tailoring, and running makeshift kitchens to feed the revolution. Many have left their well-paying jobs to volunteer at the protest site full time.
The Singhu border protest is not just a movement of farmers but a movement of all Indians. As one protester put it, "This is actually not a movement of the farmers. This is a movement of all Indians." People from different walks of life are fighting for a national cause, inspiring others to stand in solidarity. The protest is a reminder that unity and interdependence are crucial in overcoming divisive times.
