Protests
Tensions escalate as farmers prepare to revive the ‘Delhi Chalo’ protest march from the Punjab-Haryana border, with authorities anticipating a convoy of 1,200 tractors and thousands of protesters heading towards the capital.
Fears of potential disruptions in Delhi mount as the city’s police remain on high alert, fortifying entry points to prevent any untoward incidents. The prolonged standoff stems from failed talks between farmer representatives and the central government over minimum support price (MSP) guarantees.
Despite multiple attempts at dialogue, the impasse persists, fueling farmers’ determination to press on with their demands. Haryana Police have urged their Punjab counterparts to seize heavy machinery brought by protesters in an effort to prevent chaos.
Around 14,000 farmers, armed with 1,200 tractor trolleys, 300 cars, and 10 mini-buses, have gathered along the border, signaling a formidable presence. The Ministry of Home Affairs expresses grave concern over the escalating law-and-order situation, attributing it to alleged miscreants posing as farmers.
Security measures intensify around Delhi’s border points, with anticipated road closures causing potential traffic congestion. Key entry points, Tikri and Singhu, remain heavily fortified, while the closure of the Ghazipur border looms.
Prominent farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher reiterates the commitment to peaceful assembly, emphasizing the demand for legislative action on MSP for crops. Pandher’s call for a day-long Parliament session underscores pressure on the government to address farmers’ grievances.
Amid escalating tensions, concerns arise over the deployment of paramilitary forces in Haryana villages to thwart the farmers’ march. Pandher condemns government oppression, urging authorities to respect constitutional rights.
In a significant development, the Punjab and Haryana High Court directs the Punjab government to exercise restraint in allowing large farmer gatherings, citing legal constraints on running tractor-trolleys on highways.
The resurgence of the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march highlights farmers’ deepening resolve for MSP guarantees, setting the stage for another confrontation with authorities, as the nation’s capital braces for potential upheaval.
