New Delhi [India]: Farmer leaders announced on Friday evening that the ‘Dilli Chalo’ protest march was being called off for the day after clashes with police at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu border left six farmers injured.
The decision came after Haryana Police used tear gas to disperse a group of 101 farmers, part of the Bhartiya Kisan Parishad (BKP)-led protest. The farmers were pressing for demands including compensation and a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP).
Protest Halted After Injuries
Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher confirmed the injuries, stating:
“Six farmers have been injured due to police action, and we have decided to recall the ‘Jatha’ (group) for the day. However, this does not mean the march to Delhi has been abandoned. We will hold a meeting to decide our future strategy.”
Tensions at the Border
Heavy police deployment and barricades were in place at the Punjab-Haryana border, with drone footage revealing the scale of the security measures. A police officer at the site said:
“Farmers do not have permission to enter Haryana. The Ambala administration has imposed Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).”
Farmer Demands and Internet Shutdown
Earlier in the day, Pandher emphasized the farmers’ willingness to engage in dialogue with authorities:
“We should be allowed to march peacefully or engage in discussions regarding our demands. We need a clear response from the central government or the Chief Minister’s offices in Haryana or Punjab.”
In response to the escalating situation, the Haryana government ordered an internet shutdown in ten villages of Ambala, effective from December 6 to 9. The move aimed to curb the spread of misinformation via social media, though essential services like banking and mobile recharges were unaffected.
Government Response
Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Bhagirath Choudhary, extended an invitation for dialogue:
“The doors are open for the farmers to come and discuss their issues. As a brother to the farmers, I am ready to engage in dialogue, whether they come to us or request us to meet them.”
The ‘Dilli Chalo’ march remains a critical moment for the farmers and the government, with the protest underscoring ongoing tensions over agricultural policies. Future decisions from the farmers’ meeting are awaited to determine the next steps in this standoff.