India: Kurmi activists suspend indefinite rail blockade protest campaign in several eastern states Sept. 20 /update 1

Event

Kurmi activists affiliated with several organizations have suspended their indefinite rail blockade protest campaign in Assam, Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal states Sept. 20. The decision comes in response to allegations of harassment of senior Kurmi organization leaders by law enforcement officials. Rail authorities previously canceled several transport services in anticipation of the protest campaign and due to some localized demonstrations. Some organizers may recommence their protest activity over the coming weeks.

Context

The Kurmi community is an agrarian caste primarily found in the northern states, known for their involvement in farming and agriculture-related activities. In recent years, Kurmi community members have organized sporadic rail blockade programs as a part of their ongoing protest campaign to address several grievances related to land rights, agricultural policies, and socio-economic issues. Previous rail blockades have caused significant related shipping delays and transportation disruptions.