Sirsa seed and pesticide dealers strike against new Act

Seed and pesticide dealers in Sirsa have launched an indefinite strike to protest the newly introduced Seed and Pesticide (Haryana Amendment) Act, 2025. The strike began on Monday, as the dealers, including those from Sirsa, Kalanwali, Dabwali, Ellenabad, and Rania, gathered to express their concerns over the Act, calling it impractical and harmful to their businesses.

Radhey Gandhi, the president of the Seed and Pesticide Dealers’ Association, and Anil Kalra, the head of the Seed Producers Association, voiced their dissatisfaction with the new law, which they argued would make doing business impossible. Despite numerous attempts to engage in a dialogue with the government, the dealers found no solution and were forced to take the drastic step. According to them, nearly 30,000 dealers statewide are participating in the strike.

The controversial law, introduced in March 2025, mandates strict penalties for dealers and producers of seeds and pesticides. Under this law, dealers can be held responsible if a farmer makes a mistake while planting seeds, leading to crop failure. The Act also holds pesticide and seed producers accountable. The dealers argued that the law would result in unfair punishment, especially since they believe it could be misused by competitors or corrupt officials.

Radhey Gandhi said the law stated that a first time offender could face six months to a year in jail and a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh, with harsher penalties for repeat offenders. This has led to fears of potential misuse, as it could lead to false accusations against honest dealers, Gandhi added.

He said, the dealers were worried that if they reduced their stock due to fear of these penalties, the prices of seeds and pesticides could rise, ultimately harming the farmers who relied on affordable products.

The strike has caused significant concern among the farmers, as many may turn to neighbouring states to buy seeds and pesticides. However, some manufacturers have instructed the vendors not to sell to Haryana farmers, fearing legal consequences. With the kharif season approaching, the ongoing strike could disrupt the agricultural process, causing hardship for both the farmers and the traders.

National general secretary of the All India Trade Union, Bajrang Garg, has apposed the new law, labeling it unjust. If the government does not revoke the law, Garg has warned of a larger protest, possibly including a state-wide shutdown in Haryana.

Haryana Tribune