The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) — which is spearheading the farmers’ movement across the country against the three contentious farm laws — on Saturday threatened to open a front against the Punjab government if it does not increase the minimum support price for sugarcane.

The outfit said the support price for sugarcane has not been increased in the state for the past five years and demanded it be brought on a par with that in Haryana, which offers Rs 350 a quintal. Punjab gives Rs 310 a quintal.

The SKM has demanded immediate release of arrears to sugarcane farmers.

“If this is not done, Punjab will also witness permanent sit-ins like Delhi’s borders. There will be protests in front of every sugar mill,’’ SKM leaders warned, trying to push their demand ahead of the elections in Punjab next year.

By threatening to open a front against the Congress-led government in Punjab, the farmers will also be able to shrug off allegations that their ire is only directed at the BJP.

Meanwhile, the SKM has decided to step up the agitation at the Delhi borders that has lost some steam because of farmers returning home for the harvest season, the second wave of the pandemic and the accompanying lockdown.

The SKM has given a call to observe May 26 as a Black Day as the completion of six months of the protest coincides with seven years of the Modi regime. Village and mohalla-level mass protests, including the burning of effigies of the Modi government, are being planned for the day. Farmers have also been asked to hoist black flags on their houses and vehicles. All the protest sites will organise black flag demonstrations.