Lagatar24 Desk
Ambala: After a temporary suspension of their march to Delhi, 101 farmers from Punjab will resume their procession on Sunday at noon. Security has been tightened at the Shambhu border in Haryana’s Ambala district, where clashes with police disrupted the initial march on Friday.
Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher stated at a press conference, “We have not received any message from the Centre for holding talks. The Narendra Modi government is in no mood to hold discussions.” He confirmed that the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha will resume the march peacefully with 101 participants.
Clashes and Suspension of March
The farmers began their march on Friday but were met with tear gas and resistance from security forces enforcing Section 163 of the BNSS, which prohibits the assembly of five or more people. The Haryana government also suspended mobile internet and bulk SMS services in 11 villages of Ambala district until December 9.
Pandher revealed that 16 farmers were injured during the confrontation, with one losing hearing ability due to tear gas shelling. Multilayered barricades were erected at the border, and security measures have been further reinforced for Sunday’s march.
Ongoing Protests
Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continues his protest with a fast unto death at the Khanauri border. According to reports, Dallewal has lost eight kilograms during his protest, which underscores the determination of the farmers to press for their demands.
Farmers’ Demands
The December 8 march marks the fourth attempt by farmers to march to Delhi. Their demands include:
•Legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops.
•Justice for victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence.
•Compensation for families of farmers who died during previous protests in 2020-21.
•A debt waiver for farmers and farm labourers.
•Pension for farmers and farm workers.
•Reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act and no hike in electricity tariffs.
History of Protests
This year’s procession follows failed attempts in February, when farmers’ ‘Dilli Chalo’ marches were paused after police clashes resulted in a fatality.
With security heightened and farmer leaders reaffirming their peaceful intent, the march tomorrow will be a critical test of both the government’s response and the farmers’ resolve.
