A dramatic showdown is unfolding on the borders of Delhi as determined farmers are pushing ahead with their ‘Delhi Chalo’ march, demanding a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their crops. Ignoring a heavy police presence and stringent restrictions, a group of 101 farmers – dubbed ‘marjeevras’ (those willing to die for a cause) by leader Sarwan Singh Pandher – embarked on a symbolic march from the Shambhu border (Punjab-Haryana) on Friday, defying the authorities’ attempts to halt their protest.
The farmers’ steadfast determination highlights the depth of their grievances. Their core demands include a legally binding MSP, a lifeline for farmers struggling with fluctuating market prices. Beyond MSP, their list of demands also encompasses farm debt waivers, pensions for farmers and laborers, and the withdrawal of police cases filed against them during previous protests. They also seek justice for victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence, reinstatement of the 2013 Land Acquisition Act, and compensation for families of farmers who perished during the 2020-21 protests.
The government’s response has been swift and forceful. In anticipation of the march, authorities have erected a multi-layered barricade at the Shambhu border, deploying bulldozers, cranes, water cannons, ambulances, and even drones. Paramilitary forces bolster the Haryana Police, creating a formidable security cordon. To further stifle communication and organization, the Haryana government suspended mobile internet and bulk SMS services in 11 Ambala villages until December 9th. The Ambala district administration went even further, invoking Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), effectively banning all processions and gatherings of more than five people until further notice. This has also led to the temporary closure of all schools in the Ambala district.
The first ‘jatha’ (group) of protesters, led by prominent farmer leaders Satnam Singh Pannu, Surinder Singh Chautala, Surjit Singh Phul, and Baljinder Singh, is carrying only essential items, underscoring their commitment to a peaceful yet resolute demonstration. Despite pleas from the Ambala district administration on Wednesday urging the farmers to reconsider their march and seek permission from Delhi Police, the farmers remain unwavering in their resolve. The farmers, who have been camping at Shambhu and Khanauri border points since February 13th under the banner of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, are determined to make their voices heard, even if it means facing significant opposition. This determined action emphasizes the deep-seated frustrations and anxieties within India’s farming community.
The situation remains tense, with the potential for further escalation. The coming days will be crucial in determining the outcome of this powerful demonstration and the government’s response to the farmers’ unwavering demands for a fairer and more sustainable agricultural policy.
