Himachal Apple growers protest evictions, orchard destruction; Statewide stir on July 29
Shimla/Jubbal, July 23,
Amid rising anger among apple growers and local farmers, the Himachal Apple Producers Association’s Jubbal Block Unit held a crucial meeting at rest house, Jubbal, on Wednesday. The gathering, attended by members from various local units, expressed strong opposition to recent government actions involving the eviction of farmers, demolition of homes, and cutting down of fruit-bearing trees.
The meeting was presided over by Sanjay Chauhan, member of the State Committee of the Apple Producers Association. Other prominent participants included Bhagat Ram, Lokindra Kalta, Jai Singh Jaihta, Sanjay Kumar, Balwinder Jasta, Harish Chandra, Lahori Chauhan, Bhim Singh Nargeta, Ashok Jhohta, Narendra Chauhan, Girdhari Lal Nanda, Vinay Chauhan, Govind Tejata, Motiram Tejata, Laxmi Chauhan, Panna Lal Thakur, and Amar Singh Thakur, among others.
Members condemned what they described as “unjustified and high-handed” administrative actions by the state government. Speaking on the issue, Sanjay Chauhan said, “On one hand, the government claims to be moving the Supreme Court on the matter. On the other, it is simultaneously sending eviction notices, cutting apple orchards, and demolishing houses of farmers. This is creating a deep sense of insecurity and confusion among the people.”
The gathering unanimously resolved to intensify grassroots mobilization efforts ahead of the “Sachchivalay Chalo” protest march scheduled for July 29, 2025. Meetings will be conducted at the village level to raise awareness, enroll new members, and form executive committees to strengthen the movement.
Both the Himachal Kisan Sabha and the Himachal Apple Producers Association have jointly condemned the alleged double standards of the state government. The organizations have demanded immediate relief measures for affected families. Failing this, they warned, the administration should prepare to face widespread public anger during the demonstration outside the state Secretariat on July 29.
Farmers, horticulturists, and concerned citizens from across Himachal Pradesh—including social workers, progressive thinkers, and other grassroots organizations—are expected to participate in the protest.
According to Chauhan, the movement will continue until the voices of the affected are heard and justice is delivered.
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