Delhi Police Enforces Section 144 Amid Farmers’ ‘Chalo Dilli’ Protest, Heightens Security Measures Until March 12

The “Delhi Chalo” march and the accompanying protests highlight the deep-seated grievances of farmers regarding the new agricultural laws and their impact on their livelihoods. In anticipation of the farmers’ march scheduled to converge on the national capital on February 13, Delhi Police has taken proactive measures by imposing Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code at the Ghazipur border.

More than 200 farmers’ unions, including prominent organizations like the Samyukta Kisan Morcha and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, have come together to organize a massive ‘Delhi Chalo’ march. Their unified aim is to exert pressure on the central government to address several key demands that affect the agricultural sector. This mega protest in the national capital is set to draw participants from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab, representing the collective voice of farmers across these states. The farmers are determined to make their grievances heard and seek concrete action from the government.

In response to the escalating farmers’ protests, three central ministers, namely food and consumer affairs minister Piyush Goyal, agriculture minister Arjun Munda, and minister of state for home affairs Nityanand Rai, are slated to convene a crucial meeting with representatives from various farm bodies. At the heart of the protest are various demands pertaining to agricultural policies, livelihoods, and the overall welfare of farmers.

Among their key demands is the enactment of a law guaranteeing a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for agricultural produce, a condition that they had previously set forth in 2021 (now repealed). Additionally, the farmers are calling for the implementation of the recommendations put forth by the Swaminathan Commission, which advocates for fair pricing and support mechanisms for farmers. They are also seeking pensions for both farmers and farm laborers, as well as a comprehensive farm debt waiver to alleviate their financial burdens. Another demand from the protesting farmers is for justice to be served for the victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri violence, emphasizing the need for accountability and recourse in cases of violence against farmers.

Due to the perceived risk of widespread tension and the potential for violence, the Delhi Police has enforced Section 144 along the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border, drawing from past experiences during the 2020 farmers’ agitation. This directive restricts gatherings of five or more individuals, regardless of the presence of weapons, across the entire jurisdiction of the national capital. Moreover, the latest order prohibits farmers from blocking roads, conducting processions, or assembling within Delhi. The restrictions extend to the entry of tractor trolleys, trucks, or any vehicles transporting individuals or materials such as sticks, guns, swords, and firearms into the city. The Delhi Traffic Police has issued an advisory for the planned farmers’ march, emphasizing thorough inspections for all vehicular traffic originating from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and heading towards Delhi. Additionally, the use of amplifiers in private vehicles, public buildings, or public spaces has been banned by the Delhi Police in anticipation of the farmers’ protest.

Despite these measures, protesting farmers remain resolute in their demand for legislation guaranteeing a Minimum Support Price (MSP), a condition they had insisted upon when withdrawing their agitation against the now-repealed farm laws in 2021. The ‘Delhi Chalo’ march is not merely a demonstration of dissent but a powerful assertion of farmers’ rights and their role as the backbone of India’s agrarian economy. It represents a crucial moment in the ongoing dialogue between farmers and policymakers, highlighting the need for inclusive and equitable solutions to address the challenges facing the agricultural sector. As the farmers’ march draws nearer, all eyes are on Delhi Police and the measures they have implemented to manage the situation effectively. 

By  Kashish Jain