SKM calls for ‘People’s March’ on Republic Day, urges farmers to defend democracy and federalism
The Sanyukt Kisan Morcha has urged farmers to mark January 26 with rallies and a ‘People’s March’, saying the protests should defend constitutional values while avoiding disruption of official Republic Day celebrations.
What SKM announced
The Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has appealed to farmers to observe Republic Day, January 26, 2026, with a nationwide “People’s March”. The umbrella farmers’ platform said the day should be marked as a “day of the people” and called for mass participation through tractor parades, vehicle and motorcycle rallies, and public demonstrations.
The organisation also said the programmes should not disrupt official celebrations, seeking to position its mobilisation as parallel civic action rather than a confrontation at ceremonial venues. The call follows SKM’s national council meeting held on January 11, according to the report.
Issues SKM flagged
SKM framed its Republic Day mobilisation around a broader political argument: that constitutional values such as democracy, secularism and federalism need active defence. It cited multiple legislations it claims threaten these principles, and urged farmers and supporters to use January 26 to reaffirm the right to protest and freedom of expression.
By linking the march to constitutional ideals rather than only crop-price or procurement issues, SKM signalled an intent to widen the narrative beyond agriculture-specific demands. The messaging aims to draw in allied groups and urban supporters who may relate to governance and federalism debates.
Why the Republic Day timing matters
Republic Day has high symbolic value because it marks the Constitution coming into force. SKM’s strategy appears designed to use that symbolism to amplify its critique, while also maintaining public legitimacy by explicitly urging participants not to interfere with official functions.