Delhi-NCR Set for More Traffic Woes as Farmers’ Protest Intensifies
Farmers’ protests intensify in Delhi-NCR with traffic snarls, heightened security, internet shutdowns, and demands for MSP and other critical reforms.
Delhi-NCR Faces Traffic Chaos Amid Farmers’ Protest March Over MSP, Debt Waivers, and Other Demands
Delhi-NCR is preparing to face yet another day of traffic blockages as farmers get ready for a new round of protests to reach the national capital today. The agitation that began on Friday from Greater Noida’s Pari Chowk has already seen wide spread traffic jams and the heightening of tensions in the region. The “Dilli Chalo” march from Shambhu border saw major deployment of security forces along with strict checks at the borders and central Delhi.
This developed into a situation when tear gas shells were fired by the police at protesting farmers who were trying to move ahead as they had dismantled barbwire and barricades at Shambhu border. Over hundred of farmers continued their march towards Delhi on foot despite the prohibitory orders under section 163 of BNSS in Ambala which bans the gathering of five or more people.
Security intensified, farmers arrested
Several farmers were detained at the Shambhu border, and others were stopped before entering Haryana. Senior police officer said, “They have no permission to proceed. The Ambala authorities have orders under Section 163.”.
In preparation for the march, Delhi Police heightened security at all entry points to the city and issued an alert. The measures resulted in severe traffic jams in parts of Noida, Greater Noida, and other border areas. Farmers from Uttar Pradesh also staged a sit-in at the Noida border, adding to the chaos.
The authorities further strangled the situation by suspending the internet service in Ambala till December 9. All the public gatherings and processions with or without vehicles have been prohibited. All the schools of the district have been shut down for precautionary purposes.
Read more: PM Modi and Mallikarjun Kharge Share Light Moment During Ambedkar Tribute on Mahaparinirvan Diwas
The security at all the borders has been tightened with multi-layer security measures.
Extensive security arrangements have been devised to prevent farmers from going into Delhi. Water canons and concrete barricades since early morning were deployed at Singhu border. Central paramilitary forces have been stationed at Haryana side of the border, supplementing the multi-layered barricading arranged at key points such as Shambhu on National Highway 44.
Delhi: The local police have installed check posts at the Singhu border to enforce GRAP-4 measures and maintain law and order. Senior officers are on high alert, ready to handle any unforeseen situation.
Farmers’ Assurances and Leadership
Farmer leaders have promised the authorities that their protest will be peaceful despite the standoff. According to Punjab DIG (Patiala Range) Mandeep Singh Sidhu and SSP (Patiala) Nanak Singh, the farmers have assured that they would not use tractor-trolleys during the march. The first batch of protesters is led by prominent farmer leaders, Satnam Singh Pannu, Surinder Singh Chautala, and Surjit Singh Phul.
Meanwhile, Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continues his fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point, further intensifying the protest.
Why Are Farmers Protesting?
Among their main demands are a legal guarantee for MSPs for crops, farm debt waivers, pensions for both farmers and laborers, no increase in electricity tariffs, withdrawal of police cases against them, and justice for victims of the violence in Lakhimpur Kheri in 2021.
They are demanding the restoration of the Land Acquisition Act 2013 and compensation for the families of farmers who sacrificed their lives during the protests during 2020-21. The agitation is led by unions under the aegis of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (not political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha.
Read more: Cable Theft Causes Disruptions on Delhi Metro’s Blue Line – Passengers Advised to Brace for Delays
Broader Implications and Challenges
The continued farmers’ protests have again highlighted the brewing tensions between the government and the farming community. The farmers are camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13, following the security forces foiling their march to Delhi. The long-drawn stand-off mirrors the widespread resentment among farmers against the agricultural policies and the feeling that their demands were being ignored.
Though the administration maintains that it will ensure order and law, there seem to be indications of resolve within the farmers’ side and such protests may continue to keep continuing for days, with an overall effect on Delhi-NCR. With internet shut off, traffic jams, and schools closed, things go on getting worse by day in the region with these events unfolding.
As the protests continue, it all depends on the authorities and the farmer leaders to find a solution that resolves their grievances without further increasing the conflict.
We’re now on WhatsApp. Click to join.
Like this post?
Register at One World News to never miss out on videos, celeb interviews, and best reads.
