Punjab farmers heading to Delhi; borders sealed; Centre-farmer dialogue scheduled today

PTC News Desk: Various farmers' associations, predominantly from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab, have announced plans for a march to New Delhi on February 13. Their primary demand is the enactment of a law guaranteeing a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for agricultural produce.

Scheduled for February 13, the farmers' march aims to exert pressure on the Centre to address several key issues, with the assurance of MSP legislation being at the forefront. According to Samyukta Kisan Morcha leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, over 200 farmers' unions from across the nation will participate in the 'Delhi Chalo' march.

Preparations for the impending march have prompted authorities in Haryana and Delhi to strengthen their borders with neighboring states. Concrete blocks, road spike barriers, and barbed wires have been erected to prevent the entry of vehicles, while thousands of police personnel have been deployed. Prohibitory orders have also been imposed in anticipation of the event.

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HERE ARE TOP DEVELOPMENTS AHEAD OF FARMERS' MARCH TO DELHI

1. As alternative routes to Haryana remain closed ahead of the farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' march on February 13, commuters are compelled to navigate through village routes for their travels.

2. Key roads like Pehowa and Cheeka have also been obstructed with boulders, forcing commuters to rely solely on designated routes. Consequently, heavy traffic congestion has been reported since Sunday night.

3. Despite impending talks between three Union ministers and farmer leaders regarding their demands, the Haryana government is adopting stringent measures by blocking numerous roads traversing the state and heading towards the national capital.

4. Farmers hailing from nearby states such as Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab are anticipated to converge in Delhi on February 13 as part of their planned 'Delhi Chalo March'. Their primary demand revolves around the enactment of legislation ensuring a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their agricultural yield.

5. Ahead of the farmers' planned march to Delhi on February 13th, Delhi Police has enforced Section 144 at the Ghazipur Border, Tikri Border, and Singhu Border.

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(Inputs from agencies)