Haryana Internet Suspension and Border Sealing Challenged in HC Amid Farmers’ Protest: Live Updates.

2 min read 2024-02-12, 08:20 PM IST

The national capital is gripped with tension as farmers gear up for the Delhi Chalo March scheduled to take place on February 13th. The call for the march, initiated by farmers’ unions, has put Delhi on high alert with security measures tightened across the region. The Punjab-Haryana border has been sealed in anticipation of large gatherings of farmers who plan to converge on Delhi to press for their demands, including a law guaranteeing a minimum support price (MSP) for crops. (also read: Stone Pelting in Bareilly After Police Detain Maulana Tauqeer Raza Amid Gyanvapi Issue).

The Haryana government has taken preemptive measures by suspending mobile internet services in seven districts and imposing prohibitory orders in areas adjacent to Chandigarh. These actions aim to prevent any potential breakdown of law and order as farmers mobilize for the protest.

This impending march follows similar protests by farmers from Uttar Pradesh who attempted to enter the national capital from the Noida border in recent days, resulting in significant disruptions for commuters and residents.

Efforts by the central government to quell the protests and address the farmers’ grievances have so far been unsuccessful. Despite the intervention of Union ministers and discussions with farmer leaders, no breakthrough has been achieved. The agitation is not unified under the umbrella of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, but various farmer unions are coordinating to advance their common demands.

Hannan Mulla, Vice President of the All India Kisan Sabha, emphasized that while the Samyukta Kisan Morcha had led previous protests resulting in the withdrawal of controversial farm laws, the government had failed to fulfill promises made regarding MSP and other key issues. (also read: Nationwide Truckers’ Strike Grips India: Protests, Disruptions, and Fuel Shortages).

The farmers’ demands include fair compensation, MSP guarantees, and relief for families of deceased protesters. Despite assurances from the government, including Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar’s statement regarding efforts to address farmers’ concerns, the situation remains tense.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has also engaged with farmers, claiming progress on several issues, though further discussions are needed to address outstanding demands.

With the Delhi Chalo March looming, authorities are taking extensive measures to prevent large-scale protests, including sealing borders and imposing restrictions on public gatherings. The aim is to avoid a repeat of previous disruptions and maintain law and order in the capital.

As tensions escalate, the government’s ability to resolve the impasse and avert potential confrontations with protesting farmers remains uncertain. The coming days will be crucial in determining the outcome of this latest standoff between farmers and the authorities.