Farmers to resume Delhi march amid chaos at Punjab-Haryana border
PTC News Desk: After a tumultuous day marked by clashes with police and a heavy security presence, protesting farmers are steadfast in their determination to resume their march towards Delhi. The 'Delhi Chalo' movement, reminiscent of the massive protests in 2020-21, has once again brought thousands of farmers primarily from Punjab to the forefront of the national stage.
The day began with high tensions at the Punjab-Haryana border as farmers attempted to advance towards Delhi as part of their protest against agricultural laws and to press for their demands, including guaranteed minimum support prices (MSP) for crops and loan waivers. However, their progress was met with stiff resistance from the Haryana Police, who deployed various tactics to deter their entry into the state.
#WATCH | Delhi: More concrete is being poured between the concrete slabs at the Tikri Border to make the border stronger on day 2 of the farmers' march towards the National Capital pic.twitter.com/kyhtGlD8iv — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2024
Reports from the ground indicated a chaotic scene, with tear gas and water cannons being used to disperse the crowds. Drones equipped with tear gas canisters hovered above, adding to the intensity of the confrontation. Despite these measures, farmers remained undeterred, showing a resilience reminiscent of their earlier protests. As the day wore on, clashes between protesters and police intensified, leading to several injuries on both sides. However, amidst the chaos, there were moments of solidarity and determination among the farmers, who stood firm in their resolve to continue their march towards Delhi.
#WATCH | Heavy traffic snarl seen near Singhu border in Delhi amid strict security measures in view of farmers' protest.
(Drone visuals) pic.twitter.com/RRLtqxWKM9 — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024
Eventually, a temporary "ceasefire" was declared, allowing for a brief respite from the clashes. However, this ceasefire is seen as only a pause in the larger struggle, as farmers have vowed to press ahead with their plans to reach the national capital.
The 'Delhi Chalo' march is being organized by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, who have been leading the charge against the contentious farm laws enacted by the central government. Despite several rounds of talks between the farmers and the government, no conclusive agreement has been reached, leading to escalating tensions and widespread protests across the country.
#WATCH | Police use tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at the Haryana-Punjab Shambhu Border.
The farmers have announced to continue to march towards the National Capital. pic.twitter.com/bJC0xXPCaU — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024
As the farmers regroup and prepare to resume their march, the nation watches with bated breath, aware of the significance of their movement not just for the agricultural community but for the broader discourse on governance, democracy, and the rights of citizens to protest peacefully. The events unfolding at the Punjab-Haryana border serve as a stark reminder of the unresolved issues and deep-seated grievances that continue to simmer beneath the surface, demanding urgent attention and redressal from those in power.
Also Read: Punjab farmers heading to Delhi; borders sealed; Centre-farmer dialogue scheduled today
Also Read: Why farmers' protest has cops, govts on toes, once again? Key Points
1. Farmers from Punjab faced strong resistance from Haryana Police at two key border points as they attempted to advance towards Delhi as part of their protest.
2. Haryana Police employed tear gas, water cannons, and other measures to halt the progress of the protesters.
3. Clashes ensued, resulting in injuries on both sides. 24 police personnel were reported injured, while over 60 protesters were claimed to have sustained injuries by farmer leaders.
4. Authorities utilized drones carrying tear gas canisters, along with water cannons, cement barriers, sandbags, and tyre deflators in their efforts to stop the farmers.
5. Despite police appeals, the situation escalated when protesters resorted to stone pelting and attempted to dismantle barricades.
6. Demonstrating preparedness for a prolonged struggle, farmers brought along six months' worth of rations and diesel, indicating their determination not to retreat easily.
7. In response to the clashes, the Punjab government has alerted hospitals near the Haryana border, increased ambulance numbers, and urged the Haryana government to exercise restraint in handling the protesters.
8. Delhi experienced traffic chaos due to the ongoing farmers' protest, resulting in blocked routes and heavy congestion near Singhu, Ghazipur, and Chilla border points. Similar disruptions are anticipated for Wednesday, particularly in North and East Delhi, with movement restricted to two lanes on the DND flyway. The Singhu and Tikri borders are expected to remain closed, as per a Delhi Traffic Police advisory.
9. Security measures in Delhi are being heightened ahead of the 'Delhi Chalo' March by farmers. Barricades and barbed wires, previously erected at the city's borders, are being reinforced following reports of protesters attempting to breach the security cordon at the Punjab-Haryana border by moving cement blocks.
Also Read: 'Delhi Chalo' protest: Centre, farmers' meet ends inconclusively
(Inputs from agencies)
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