Farmer Protest: Amid the call for the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march scheduled on February 13 in the national capital, farmer organizations have witnessed a heightened level of tension. In response, the Haryana government has temporarily converted two major stadiums into makeshift prisons to detain farmers apprehended in connection with any untoward incidents.
With the announcement of the tractor march and other means of rallying to Delhi on February 13, the police have intensified their vigilance. Preparations for barricading all borders of the national capital have been made, and a change in traffic arrangements has been implemented for the next two days.
Drones, CCTV cameras, and additional security measures have been deployed along the Singhu border and other areas in the northeastern region where Section 144 has been imposed. Any assembly has been strictly prohibited, and barbed wires, cranes, and iron stakes are being installed along the borders. Continuous surveillance is being maintained through CCTV cameras and drones to monitor all activities.
According to reports, in case the march proceeds, the Chaudhary Dalbir Singh Indoor Stadium in Sirsa and the Guru Gobind Singh Stadium in Dabwali will serve as temporary prisons for detained farmers. Meanwhile, security measures have been reinforced along the Delhi-Haryana borders.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, the Haryana government has sealed the state’s border with Punjab using iron barricades, cement barricades, and barbed wires to prevent farmers from joining the proposed ‘Delhi Chalo’ march.
On Monday, before the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march, Rakesh Tikait, a prominent farmer leader, said in Amritsar, “Millions of farmers have been called to join the march to exert pressure on their demands. They will participate in the march from Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Bihar, Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan to the national capital.”
What are the farmers’ demands?
Implementation of a complete debt waiver scheme for farmers and laborers.
Provision of pension for farmers and agricultural laborers.
Compensation for all families of farmers killed during the Delhi protests and employment for one family member.
Formation of a national commission for spices.
Justice for those responsible for the Lakhimpur Kheri tragedy.