Authorities are on high alert as farmers from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh gear up for the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march, marking a significant resurgence in the farmers’ protest movement. Following inconclusive talks with Union ministers, over 200 unions have mobilized under the leadership of Jagjeet Singh Dallewal and Sarwan Singh Pandher to press their demands, chiefly clarity on legal guarantees for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and implementation of the Swaminathan report. The Haryana government has extended the ban on mobile internet and bulk SMS services in seven districts till February 15, citing the ‘Delhi Chalo’ agitation.
These measures aim to control the flow of information and communication among protesters. At border points, tensions have escalated, with farmers from Punjab facing resistance from the Haryana Police as they attempted to breach barricades, resulting in clashes and the use of tear gas shells. Farmer leaders have accused the central government of orchestrating attacks on protesters, alleging injuries to around 60 individuals during clashes at the Punjab-Haryana border.
Efforts to fortify border points are evident, with videos circulated by news agencies showing the pouring of concrete between slabs at the Tikri border. Legal actions and petitions have also ensued, with the Supreme Court Bar Association urging Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud to address the situation, while the Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued notices in response to petitions related to the march. Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda emphasizes the need for structured discussions with stakeholders before enacting laws guaranteeing MSP.
Despite the protesters not yet reaching Delhi, traffic disruptions are evident in the region due to barricades and heightened security measures. Farmer organizations and political entities like the Samyukta Kisan Morcha and All India Forward Bloc have condemned the government’s use of force to suppress the protests.
Farmers in Tamil Nadu stage ‘road roko’ protests in solidarity with the Delhi-bound farmers, demanding the fulfillment of promises made by the government. Leaders like P Ayyakannu and P R Pandian emphasize the need for dialogue and fulfillment of promises to address the concerns of protesting farmers. The ‘Delhi Chalo’ march reflects the resolute determination of farmers to secure their rights and fair treatment, setting the stage for continued dialogue and action between the government and agricultural stakeholders.
The situation remains tense as both sides stand firm on their positions, with farmers adamant on their demands and the government stressing the need for structured discussions and legal considerations before implementing reforms. As the protests continue to garner support and attention both nationally and internationally, the onus lies on the authorities to address the grievances of the farmers and work towards a mutually beneficial resolution.