INVC NEWS
New Delhi : The farmers are gearing up once again to take to the streets, determined to voice their demands loud and clear. On February 13, the United Farmers Front and the Farmers’ Labor Front have called for a “Delhi March.” Simultaneously, the United Farmers Front has urged for a nationwide shutdown on February 16. With the escalating agitation among farmers, the Delhi Police have made elaborate arrangements to deter their entry. All borders of Delhi are being sealed, with heightened vigilance observed at the Singhu and Tikri borders.
Preparation for the March
In preparation for the impending “Delhi March” and to amplify their demands, farmers from Punjab, Haryana, and several other states are actively engaged in organizing protest activities. Door-to-door ration collection drives are underway, and tractor trollies are being readied. Should the dialogue between the government and farmers fail today, a significant number of farmers are set to march towards Delhi on February 13. In anticipation of the farmers’ march, the Delhi Police have barricaded and completely blocked the roads at the Ghazipur and Tikri borders. All Delhi borders have been converted into makeshift camps.
Heightened Security Measures
Following the visual confirmation of the approaching farmer marches, the police have barricaded the roads entirely at the Ghazipur and Tikri borders in Delhi. All Delhi borders have been transformed into military-style camps. Similarly, last night, the UP Gate at Ghazipur Lane was barricaded and closed. Furthermore, to deter farmers from entering Delhi, cement barricades and barbed wires have been placed at the Shambhu border between Punjab and Haryana. Additionally, bridges over the Ghaggar River in Haryana have been shut down.
Strategic Deployment of Obstacles
At various points along the borders, barricades, large cement blocks, containers, and other obstacles have been strategically deployed. Several locations have also seen the placement of spikes. It is believed that farmers coming from Punjab and Haryana may attempt to enter the capital from these two borders, prompting police to take preventive measures.
Government’s Response
On the other hand, the government is also gearing up for negotiations with the farmers. A committee comprising Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Arjun Munda, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, and Home Affairs Minister Nityanand Rai has been formed. A representative from the United Farmers Front stated that if today’s discussions, scheduled for February 12 in Chandigarh with these ministers, fail to yield results, the farmers will proceed with the Delhi March.
As tensions mount and preparations intensify on both sides, the farmers’ Delhi March looms large, posing significant challenges for law enforcement agencies and policymakers alike. The outcome of today’s talks will determine the course of action, with both parties standing firm on their respective demands.
