Farmers Gear Up for Delhi March, Police Prepare for Potential Disruptions
Farmers from Punjab, under the banner of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, are forging ahead with plans to march to the national capital on December 6. This comes after previous attempts to reach Delhi on February 13 and 21 were thwarted by security personnel at the Punjab-Haryana borders.
Their demands remain steadfast: they seek a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, a debt waiver, pensions for farmers and farm laborers, the reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, and a halt to any increase in electricity tariffs.
They are also calling for “justice” for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence and compensation for the families of farmers who lost their lives during a previous protest in 2020-21.
Police Brace for Potential Disruptions
Delhi Police have affirmed their preparedness to handle any situation arising from the planned march to the Singhu border. While no additional security forces have been deployed at the border yet, officials have promised a significant presence on the Delhi-Chandigarh highway, strategically placed to monitor the situation.
“We are actively analyzing the situation and will respond accordingly, considering any intelligence input or information regarding farmer movement,” a senior police official stated.
The Singhu border is already staffed by local police at checkpoints, ensuring the implementation of GRAP-4 measures, which aim to maintain order and security, and upholding public safety.
Meas yet to be taken
The district administration in Ambala, Haryana, has urged the farmers to reconsider their march and to seek permission from the Delhi Police before proceeding. However, the Delhi Police confirmed they have not received any such request.
Section 163 of BNSS, which restricts the assembly of five or more persons, was also imposed in Ambala, and notices were issued near the Shambu border.
Despite these developments, faith seems embedded in peaceful intentions as one of the farmer leaders, Sarwan Singh Pandher, revealed on Monday, “A delegation of farmers met the superintendent of police in Ambala and informed them about the march to Delhi. We assured them that traffic would not be disrupted and our protest would remain peaceful.”
Farmers have been camped at the Shambhu and Khanauri border since November 17th, their resolve solidified with each passing day. As December 6 approaches, the nation awaits to see how this unfolding drama will play out.
What role does the Minimum Support Price (MSP) play in the farmers’ demands?
## Farmers on the Move: An Interview with Dr. Kaur, Agricultural Expert
**Host:** Welcome back, viewers. The farmers’ march to Delhi is back on the table, scheduled for December 6th. Joining us to discuss the situation is Dr. Kaur, a leading expert in agricultural policy. Dr. Kaur, thank you for being here.
**Dr. Kaur:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Let’s start by providing some context. Why are these farmers marching to the capital again?
**Dr. Kaur:** The farmers’ demands, while not new, remain largely unaddressed. They are primarily seeking a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their crops, which they see as essential for financial stability. There are also calls for debt waivers, pensions for farmers and farm laborers, reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, and a halt to electricity tariff hikes.
**Host:** This isn’t their first attempt to reach Delhi, correct?
**Dr. Kaur:** No, unfortunately, previous attempts in February were met with roadblocks at the Punjab-Haryana borders by security personnel. It’s frustrating for these farmers, who feel their concerns are falling on deaf ears.
**Host:** What are some of the specific issues driving this movement?
**Dr. Kaur:** The lack of a legal guarantee for MSP is particularly concerning. Without it, farmers are vulnerable to market fluctuations, which can result in significant losses. The 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence [1] also highlighted the vulnerability and often harsh realities faced by farmers.
**Host:** What can be done to address these concerns agraeffectively?
**Dr. Kaur:** Open and transparent dialog is crucial. The government needs to engage with these farmers, listen to their grievances, and work towards concrete solutions. Providing a guaranteed MSP would not only stabilize farmers’ livelihoods but also ensure food security for the nation.
**Host:** It seems like a complex issue with no easy answers.
**Dr. Kaur:** Absolutely, but ignoring the concerns of those who feed the nation is not a sustainable solution. We need to find a way forward that ensures fairness and security for both farmers and consumers.
**Host:** Dr. Kaur, thank you for sharing your insights on this important matter.
**Dr. Kaur:** Thank you for having me.
[1] https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/farmers-march-to-delhi-today-what-are-their-demands-and-routes-to-avoid-124120200259_1.html
