By – Shubhendra Singh Rajawaf
Punjab’s Borders Witness Movement, Haryana Stays Calm
The farmers’ agitation has taken a distinct turn, with the protests now primarily focused on Punjab’s borders while Haryana remains relatively peaceful. Tight security arrangements continue at Tikri and Kundli borders as a precaution against any escalation.
At the Tikri border, Delhi and Haryana police have reinforced security, installing iron barricades, shipping containers, and sand-filled sacks to manage any potential unrest. The Delhi police have also set up eight tents, one of which is located on a hotel rooftop, and deployed CRPF, BSF, and RAF personnel to ensure law and order.
Meanwhile, the Kundli border in Sonipat district remains calm, with no significant impact of the movement observed on Haryana’s side. However, the police in Jind, Kaithal, Fatehabad, and Sirsa districts maintain a heightened state of vigilance.
Khanauri Border Hosts Peaceful Protests
In Ambala, the Shambhu border saw a day-long meeting of farmer leaders before they moved to the Khanauri border. Monday’s sit-in at Khanauri progressed peacefully. On the Haryana side, particularly along Jind’s border, the agitation had no visible impact.
However, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continues his hunger strike despite his deteriorating health. The resolve of the farmers remains strong, even as authorities closely monitor the situation.
Tikri Border: A Fortress Under Watchful Eyes
Three days before Monday’s events, authorities placed iron barricades and containers at the Tikri border. The area has been fortified with soil-filled sacks and stringent security measures. Senior police officials from Delhi and Bahadurgarh are conducting regular inspections to assess the situation.
At Sector-9 crossing in Bahadurgarh, iron barricades were also set up two days ago. Despite these measures, the situation remains under control, and vehicular movement between Delhi and Haryana is proceeding smoothly.
Political Support for Farmers Grows
Abhay Chautala Criticizes BJP’s Actions
Abhay Chautala, the Secretary-General of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) and former MLA, has extended his full support to the farmers’ movement. In a press conference on Monday, he accused the BJP-led government of oppressing farmers by blocking their peaceful march to Delhi.
“The BJP government is committing atrocities by stopping farmers who are walking to Delhi to demand their rights,” Chautala said. He urged the opposition parties to stand firmly with the farmers, warning of worsening conditions if the government fails to address their demands.
Khap Leaders Condemn Government Actions
At a meeting held in Jat Dharamshala under the leadership of Bharat Singh Beniwal, the provincial head of the Beniwal Khap, leaders criticized the government’s actions as undemocratic. They argued that blocking farmers from marching to Delhi infringes on their fundamental rights.
“The government’s refusal to listen to farmers’ demands and its attempts to suppress their voices through such measures are unacceptable. If the demands are not met, the situation will deteriorate further,” the Khap leaders warned.
The Road Ahead
While calm prevails across Haryana-Punjab borders, the farmers remain steadfast in their demands. Leaders continue to call for unity among opposition parties and warn the government of potential unrest if their issues remain unresolved. With the focus shifting predominantly to Punjab, all eyes are now on the next steps in this ongoing movement.
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