The farmers’ ‘Delhi Chalo’ march faced yet another hurdle today as Haryana Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters at the Haryana-Punjab border. The protest, which has been ongoing for weeks, is centered around demands for a legal guarantee on the Minimum Support Price (MSP), along with other key issues affecting the farming community. At least 10 farmers were injured during the crackdown, prompting the protesters to temporarily pause their march. Despite this, a determined group of 101 farmers resumed their foot march towards Delhi at noon.
Congress leader and renowned wrestler Bajrang Punia joined the farmers at the Shambhu border to express solidarity. Criticizing the government’s approach, Punia remarked, “On one hand, the government claims it is not stopping the farmers, but on the other, it uses tear gas and water cannons. This is being treated as if it’s the Pakistan border. When leaders go to Delhi to protest, do they take permission?”
This marks the third attempt by farmers to march to the national capital since December 6. On two previous occasions, December 6 and December 8, Haryana security personnel prevented their advance. Today’s march faced similar resistance, with authorities implementing stringent measures to block the protesters. The Haryana government suspended mobile internet and bulk SMS services in 12 villages of Ambala, including Dangdehri, Lehgarh, Manakpur, and Sultanpur, until December 17. The suspension was aimed at preventing the spread of misinformation. Additionally, multi-layered barricades were erected to stop the protesters, with Ambala police stating that farmers could only march to Delhi after securing permission from the Delhi administration.
The farmers’ demands include a legal guarantee for MSP, a waiver of farm debts, pensions for farmers, no increase in electricity tariffs, withdrawal of police cases against protesters, and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence. They also seek the reinstatement of provisions in the Land Acquisition Act, 2013.
Meanwhile, on the sidelines of the march, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continues his fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border, highlighting the unrelenting spirit of the protesters. The farmers remain resolute, determined to push for their demands despite repeated attempts to stifle their movement.
The protest is a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by India’s agrarian community, as they rally for their rights and press for justice in the face of mounting challenges.
