Thousands of farmers from Punjab are set to resume their ‘Delhi Chalo’ march today, renewing their call for Minimum Support Price (MSP) support for all crops. This decision comes after unsuccessful talks with the central government, with protesting farmers currently stationed at the Haryana-Punjab Shambhu border. The anticipated march is expected to disrupt life in Delhi and its environs, as security measures to deter the farmers may lead to traffic congestion.
Top Updates on Farmers’ Protest
According to sources cited by news agency PTI, approximately 14,000 individuals have gathered along the Punjab-Haryana border, with a convoy consisting of 1200 tractor trolleys, 300 cars, and 10 mini-buses. Additionally, the Ministry of Home Affairs has allowed 4500 individuals with 500 tractors to assemble at the Dhabi-Gujran barrier. However, concerns have been raised regarding the law-and-order situation by the ministry, alleging instances of miscreants posing as farmers and engaging in disruptive activities like stone-pelting.
Government’s Concerns and Farmer Rejections
The Ministry of Home Affairs has voiced objections to the use of heavy machinery such as tractors and JCB machines during the protests. Despite the government’s proposal to procure pulses, maize, and cotton at MSP for a five-year period, farmers have rejected it, asserting that it does not serve their interests. Consequently, they have reaffirmed their intention to march towards Delhi.
Escalation of Tensions and Farmer Leader’s Statements
Tensions escalated last week as farmers clashed with the Haryana police, encountering obstacles such as barbed wires and tear gas shells. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher accused the government of resorting to force to impede their progress, likening the situation to that of Kashmir. He emphasized the farmers’ determination to proceed with their march, holding the government responsible for any ensuing consequences.
Deployment of Heavy Machinery and Security Measures
In response to the police’s defenses, farmers have introduced heavy machinery like excavators and JCB machines, equipped with protective measures against rubber bullets. Additionally, farmers are arming themselves with anti-riot gear, including gas masks, as they anticipate further confrontations. Meanwhile, security personnel have intensified their presence at key entry points to Delhi, erecting barriers reinforced with concrete, barbed wires, and iron nails to deter the advancing tractors.
Anticipated Traffic Chaos and Route Plans
With heavy security deployment and barriers in place, traffic chaos is expected at the Singhu, Tikri, and Ghazipur borders. The farmers intend to approach Delhi through two routes, one via Shambhu, Ambala, Karnal, Panipat, and Sonepat, and the other via Khanouri, Jind, and Rohtak along the Punjab-Haryana border.
As tensions escalate and both sides remain steadfast in their positions, the fate of the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march hangs in the balance, with potential ramifications for the ongoing farmers’ protest and the broader agricultural landscape in Bharat.
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