SKM urges farmers to mark Republic Day with ‘People’s March’, flags concerns over recent laws

Republic Day mobilisation pitch

The Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has urged farmers to observe Republic Day with public mobilisation, calling for a ‘People’s March’ on January 26, 2026. The group’s appeal includes tractor parades, vehicle and motorcycle rallies, and local demonstrations, while also urging supporters not to disrupt official celebrations.

According to a Times of India report, SKM framed the proposed actions as a defence of constitutional principles such as democracy, secularism and federalism. The organisation said the day should be marked as a “day of the people”, linking the Republic Day symbolism to a broader demand that citizens remain vigilant about legislative and policy changes.

What SKM is protesting

SKM’s statement, as reported, flagged multiple laws and proposals it alleges threaten federal structure and rights. The report listed measures including the Electricity Bill 2025, Labour Codes, Seeds Bill 2025, Insurance Act 2025 and others. SKM also reiterated support for freedom of expression and the right to protest as essential democratic safeguards.

The call follows SKM’s national council meeting held on January 11, indicating a coordinated national approach rather than isolated local activity. The political thrust of the message is that Republic Day should not be limited to ceremony, but used to renew public attention on how governance decisions align with constitutional commitments.

What to watch on January 26

• Whether SKM-led programmes remain decentralised or converge into larger state-level events
• Policing and permissions for tractor parades and rallies in sensitive zones
• Any fresh statements from governments or political parties responding to SKM’s list of concerns

SKM’s outreach signals that farmer organisations continue to treat street mobilisation as a key political tool, especially when linking demands to high-symbolism national dates like Republic Day.