Traffic Jams at Delhi-Noida Borders Amidst Farmers’ Protest; Security Measures Intensif
Massive traffic snarls have paralyzed Delhi-Noida borders as security forces conduct vehicle searches in anticipation of a farmers’ protest in Noida and Greater Noida. In addition to regular police presence, the Rapid Action Force has been deployed to maintain control, accompanied by riot control vehicles and drone surveillance for comprehensive monitoring.Senior officials are deployed at key locations to regulate traffic, and Section 144 of the CrPC has been imposed by the Gautam Buddh Nagar Police.
The protesters plan to march to Parliament to emphasize their grievances.Farmers in Noida and Greater Noida have been on protest from December 2023, and are demanding increased compensation and developed plots in exchange for the land acquired by local development authorities in the past. The Sanyukt Kisan Morcha and Akhil Bharatiya Kisan Sabha are specifically demanding 10% of abadi land. Over the last five months, farmers from more than 40 villages have been stationed in Noida, camping outside the Noida Authority’s Sector 6 office for the last two months
Police in Noida have imposed prohibitory orders to prevent the gathering of farmers at borders and restrict entry into Delhi. A traffic advisory has also been issued, warning commuters of potential diversions.
In light of the imposed restrictions, senior police officer Hridesh Katheriya expressed concerns about potential disruptions by anti-national elements and emphasized the necessity of maintaining peace.
Senior officer Shivhari Meena assured in a video message that heavy force has been deployed at all Noida-Delhi borders, with stringent vehicle checks. Measures are also taken to minimize inconvenience for the general public, and ongoing dialogues with the farmers are reported.
On the Delhi-Haryana borders, preparations are underway to block farmers attempting to enter Delhi on Tuesday. Cement barriers, reminiscent of those used during the 2020-21 protests, have been installed, and sandbags are visible at the Shambhu border. Haryana police have issued notices to farmers, advising against participation in the protest and cautioning of potential “huge losses.”
The broader demands of farmers in Haryana and Punjab, planning a tractor march on Tuesday, include guarantees for Minimum Support Price (MSP), pension for farmers, crop insurance, and the withdrawal of FIRs filed during the 2020 protests. Haryana police have sought assistance from central forces to fortify its borders with Punjab. The protest is organized by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (apolitical), with participation expected from various Haryana outfits.
