The BKU plans to conduct the tractor march along the Yamuna Expressway, stretching from Mehndipur in Rabupura to Falaida. To maintain order and security during the event, the police have implemented prohibitory orders under Section 144 and deployed additional personnel at key entry and exit points of Delhi and Noida. The farmers’ organizations have organized a tractor march along the Yamuna Expressway, passing through the Luharli Toll Plaza and Mahamaya Flyover.

To address the expected traffic disturbances, the Noida Police has detailed specific steps in their traffic advisory. Vehicles heading from the Chilla border to Delhi can utilize the Sector 14A flyover, while those originating from the DND border can opt for the elevated route through the Film City flyover in Sector 18. Similarly, vehicles from the Kalindi border can navigate through the Mahamaya flyover to Sector 37. For commuters using the Yamuna Expressway, the advisory suggests using alternative routes and metro to minimize inconvenience. 

Goods vehicles on specific routes will have to face restrictions, and drivers are advised to consider alternative paths to reach their destinations. The Delhi police yesterday lifted some of the barriers at the Singhu and Tikri borders as the farmers decided to halt their proposed march towards the national capital. 

The SKM has announced to observe ‘Quit WTO Day’ today, demanding that the Centre pressurize developed countries to keep agriculture out of the World Trade Organization discussions. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher, has reiterated the demand for a legal guarantee of Minimum Support Price (MSP) from the government, ahead of the launch of a nationwide tractor procession on highways to press for their demands.He emphasized the need for India to withdraw from the World Trade Organization (WTO), citing the detrimental impact of WTO policies on farmers.

Pandher criticized the WTO’s policies, stating that they do not provide farmers with adequate rights. He highlighted the stark contrast between the subsidies provided to American farmers (USD 8500 annually) and Indian farmers (Rs 258), emphasizing the unfair competition that results from this disparity. He urged the Indian government to withdraw from the WTO, asserting that without this action, the situation for farmers would not improve. 

Farmers from India to Europe are joining forces to demand fairness and change. They’re facing lower crop prices, higher costs, strict rules, big stores, debt, losing their land, climate change, and cheap imports. Recently, farmers in France, Italy, Romania, Poland, Greece, Germany, Portugal, and the Netherlands have been protesting. This isn’t just a few protests—it’s a big movement, a call for everyone to stand together against tough times.

BY – KASHISH JAIN 

The ‘Delhi Chalo’ march, which was called by the farmers, is currently on hold as they mourn the loss of one of their own. However, the farmers are expected to decide their next course of action today, as they continue to push for the repeal of the controversial farm laws.

The Punjab government has expressed solidarity with the farmers and has promised to push for strict action against the police officer responsible for the farmer’s death. Meanwhile, the Haryana Police has threatened to invoke the National Security Act (NSA) against farmer leaders leading the protest.

In response, Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait has announced that the protesting farmers, led by the Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), will observe a ‘Black Friday’ to protest the death of their fellow farmer. This development comes as Congress MP Manish Tewari demands a special session of Parliament to pass a law guaranteeing Minimum Support Price (MSP) for farmers.

The Haryana Police has also reversed its decision to invoke the NSA against farmer leaders, following backlash from the farming community and political leaders. However, the police maintain that they will take strict action against any loss to government or private property during the protests.

In the midst of these developments, thousands of protesting farmers have found support from the Nihang Sikhs, a warrior sect known for their distinctive blue robes and ancient weapons. The farmers, predominantly Sikhs from Punjab, are demanding higher prices for their crops and have been marching to Delhi to press their demands.

Union Minister Arjun Munda has assured that the Central Government is dedicated to resolving the farmers’ issues through dialogue. He highlighted the recent decision to fix the fair and remunerative price of sugarcane at ₹340 per quintal as an example of the government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has announced financial assistance of ₹1 crore and a government job for the family of the deceased farmer. He has also promised legal action against those responsible for the farmer’s death.

As the farmers’ protest continues, tensions remain high, and the demand for justice for the deceased farmer grows louder. The coming days will be crucial as the farmers and the government navigate through this challenging situation.

By – Kashish Jain

The farmers claimed that a 22-year-old protestor from Bathinda, Shubhkaran Singh, was killed during the clash with the police. However, the police have denied this claim, calling it a rumor.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has assured action and announced financial aid for the family of the deceased protestor. He also stated that an FIR will be filed after the post-mortem. Security forces used tear gas, firing at least three rounds by Wednesday evening. The ‘Delhi Chalo’ protest march was initiated by farmers following a failure of talks with the Centre over minimum support price (MSP) guarantees.

Shubhkaran Singh, a 21-year-old farmer from Bhatinda, was killed on Wednesday in clashes between security personnel and protesting farmers at the Khanauri border. Twelve police personnel were also injured in the clashes.

The medical superintendent of Rajindra Hospital in Patiala, H S Rekhi, stated that Singh suffered a head injury, but the exact cause of death will be ascertained after the post-mortem. According to official reports, Shubhkaran Singh succumbed to a bullet injury. Farmers at the border alleged that the police used rubber bullets in addition to tear gas shells. Conversely, the Haryana police claimed that the farmers instigated the violence by attacking security personnel with stones and sticks. Later that evening, Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who was hit by a teargas shell, was admitted to Rajindra Hospital in Patiala. AAP leader and Punjab health minister Balbir Singh condemned the police’s actions as an “assault on democracy.” Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal asserted that Singh’s death was a result of police gunfire, although this has not been officially confirmed. 

Shubhkaran Singh was a resident of Balloh village in Bathinda, about 15 kilometers from Rampura Phul city. He was described as a hard-working contract farmer who cultivated 20 acres of land on contract with his uncle Charanjit Singh. He was also an activist of the Bhartiya Kisan Union Sidhupur and had participated in the 2021 farmers’ agitation.

Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda stated that though several rounds of discussions with the farmers were held, more efforts have to be made from both sides to reach a consensus. He affirmed the central government’s commitment to working for the interest of farmers. The government and the protesting farmers must work together to find a mutually beneficial solution that addresses the concerns of the farming community while ensuring the safety and security of all involved.

By – Kashish Jain

Farmer leaders Sarwan Singh Pandher and Jagjit Singh Dallewal addressed the media at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu border, highlighting their concerns and grievances regarding the government’s proposal. Despite the government’s proposal to procure pulses, maize, and cotton at Minimum Support Price (MSP) for five years, the farmers have rejected this offer, stating that it does not address their core concerns.

Amarinder Singh, the former Chief Minister of Punjab, recently met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss a range of issues concerning Punjab, particularly those related to farmers. This meeting comes amid ongoing protests by farmers, who have been demanding various reforms and assurances from the central government.

The farmers’ ‘Delhi Chalo’ march, which aims to press the Centre for their demands, has faced several challenges, including clashes with security forces. In response to the government’s proposal, farmer leaders have announced their intention to continue their march towards Delhi on Wednesday, February 21. They have urged the government to either address their concerns or allow them to proceed with their peaceful protest.

The demands of the protesting farmers include a legal guarantee on MSP, implementation of the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations, pension for farmers and farm laborers, farm debt waiver, no hike in electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases related to the protests, and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence. They also seek the reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and compensation for the families of farmers who died during previous agitations.

The rejection of the government’s proposal has led to renewed tensions at the borders surrounding Delhi. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha Haryana has demanded the release of detained farmers and the restoration of mobile internet services in seven districts of the state.

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal has called on the Punjab government to make decisions in the interest of the farmers. Meanwhile, farmer groups from Noida and Greater Noida have announced plans to march to Delhi on Friday, demanding developed plots and increased compensation for their acquired land.

Protesting farmers are currently encamped approximately 200 kilometers from Delhi, facing multiple fortifications and barriers, including concrete blocks, barbed wire, nail strips, and metal barricades. They are currently stationed at the Shambhu border crossing between Punjab and Haryana.

The rejection of the government’s proposal by the protesting farmers underscores the deep-rooted issues and demands that have fueled the ongoing protests. As the farmers continue their march towards Delhi, the possibility of further disruptions and clashes with security forces remains a concern.

By – Kashish Jain

The farmers, who have been camped at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders, are part of the ‘Dilli Chalo’ movement, demanding better crop prices promised in 2021. The previous rounds of dialogue on February 8 and 12 remained inconclusive, prompting this third attempt to find common ground.

In response to the use of tear gas shells and water cannons by Haryana security personnel at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders, farmer groups like Bharti Kisan Union (Ekta Ugrahan) and BKU Dakaunda (Dhaner) have announced a ‘rail roko’ in Punjab. Farmers plan to squat on rail tracks at seven locations from 12 noon to 4 pm, expressing their dissent.

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha lead the ‘Delhi Chalo’ agitation, pressing for demands such as a law on MSP, loan waivers, and the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission recommendations.

Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda, involved in negotiations, has urged protesters to cooperate, emphasizing the government’s commitment to addressing administrative matters promptly. Munda stressed the need for dialogue to find possible solutions while considering the complexity of formulating new laws.

In light of the upcoming Class 10 and 12 board exams and the situation at Delhi borders, the CBSE has issued an advisory for students to reach exam centers well in advance to avoid traffic disruptions.

Amidst these developments, Sarwan Singh Pandher has appealed to the government to cease using tear gas and create a cordial atmosphere for discussions. The ongoing protests have garnered support from public intellectuals and artists, with a joint statement endorsing the joint call by workers and farmers for a sectoral industrial strike and Grameen Bharat Bandh on February 16. The Gramin Bandh is scheduled from 6 am to 4 pm, accompanied by nationwide chakka jams on main roads from 12 pm to 4 pm on Friday, leading to road closures in Punjab for four hours.

The protest has intensified, reminiscent of the 2020 agitation when farmers demanded the repeal of three new farm laws. The current protests focus on the guarantee of MSP for all crops, loan waivers, social security benefits, and a revamped crop insurance scheme. The farmers also seek higher duties on imported agricultural produce to prevent lower farmgate prices.

The agitating farmers’ primary demand, setting MSP based on the cost of cultivation plus a 50% margin, was initially recommended by the Swaminathan committee in 2006. The protests highlight the challenges faced by farmers, including muted earnings due to export curbs, climate shocks, and economic struggles.

In response to the escalating situation, the Punjab government has extended support to injured farmers, covering the cost of their treatment. Hospitals near the Haryana border are on high alert, providing around-the-clock emergency services to ensure the safety of protesting farmers. The talks between farmer leaders and Union ministers aim to address the concerns raised by the agricultural community.

In a recent Twitter post, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging unmet promises. Gandhi accused the PM of failing to deliver on commitments such as creating 2 crore jobs annually, doubling farmers’ income, retrieving black money, reducing inflation, depositing Rs 15 lakh in every account, ensuring women’s safety, constructing 100 smart cities, strengthening the rupee, and confronting China. The Congress leader characterized the PM’s tenure as a “business of fraud” and claimed that the BJP government signifies a “guarantee of lies and injustice,” while pledging that the Congress would fulfill the country’s dreams. This critique comes amidst ongoing farmer protests, demanding the implementation of promised policies, including a Minimum Support Price for crops.

Delhi Police deployed at borders are maintaining law and order amidst the farmers’ ‘Delhi chalo’ call. Massive police and paramilitary deployment and multi-layered barricading seal the borders at Singhu, Tikri, and Ghazipur.

Central Delhi is under heavy security, with anti-riot personnel strategically deployed and barricades regulating access to key roads. On Tuesday, Delhi Metro regulated passenger entry at nine stations due to the farmers’ march.

Tear gas was used by police to halt farmers demanding minimum crop prices at the Shambhu border, with drones dropping tear gas canisters. While farmers are not actively impeded, Punjab is on high alert, with 70% of the state police force deployed. Farmers demand acknowledgement of their grievances, including legislation for a minimum support price (MSP) and enforcement of the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations. They also seek pensions for farmers and forgiveness of farm debts. Justice for victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri violence is also demanded.

Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture, K V Thomas stated that The National Commission on Farmers, chaired by Prof. M.S. Swaminathan proposed that the Minimum Support Price (MSP) should be at least 50% higher than the weighted average cost of production. However, the government did not adopt this recommendation because the MSP is determined by the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), which uses objective criteria and considers various relevant factors. Therefore, mandating a minimum 50% increase on production costs might disrupt the market. A rigid connection between MSP and production costs could prove counterproductive in certain scenarios.

On Sunday, the Delhi police implemented section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code at the Uttar Pradesh borders as a precautionary measure ahead of the farmers’ protests scheduled for Tuesday. More than 50,000 security personnel have been stationed at the Delhi borders, with internet and bulk SMS services suspended in seven districts – Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad, and Sirsa – for February 13th.

Union Minister Anurag Thakur commented on the ongoing farmer talks, noting that negotiations are prolonged due to the farmers presenting new demands. Meanwhile, the second phase of Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ in Jharkhand, slated to begin Wednesday, was called off. This decision came as the senior Congress leader hurried to Delhi to participate in a farmers’ agitation in the capital, as per party sources.

The government’s attempts to quell the protests through negotiations have so far yielded little progress, further fueling the frustration and anger among the farmers. Despite assurances of amendments and assurances, many within the farming community remain unconvinced, calling for nothing short of a complete repeal of the laws.The resilience of the farmers has garnered widespread support from various quarters, with civil society organizations, opposition parties, and even international figures expressing solidarity with their cause. Critics of the farm laws contend that they favor corporate interests over the welfare of farmers, while proponents argue that they are necessary for modernizing the agricultural sector.

By Kashish Jain

Anticipating a farmer’s protest on February 13, Delhi Traffic Police issued advisories starting Monday. Traffic restrictions and diversions were enforced at the Singhu border with Haryana, with commuters advised to seek alternative routes. Barricades and increased police checks were evident along the Ghazipur border.

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha and various farmer associations are mobilizing for the protest, primarily demanding a guaranteed minimum support price (MSP) for crops. Over 90% of participants are expected from Haryana and Delhi, prompting both administrations to make arrangements for crowd control.

Section 144 is active at various locations, including the Delhi border, with stern warnings of legal action against attempts to breach the national capital. Stringent measures, such as strong barricades and tear gas preparations, have been implemented.

Traffic disruptions in Delhi-NCR are impacting commuters. In preparation for the march, Delhi Metro closed some gates at eight stations for security reasons, affecting daily routines for locals. Delhi police are strategically deployed at the Delhi-UP Apsara border to deter protesting farmers. Union Minister Arjun Munda expressed concern for farmers’ interests and willingness for discussions.

The Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee dismissed Congress party support, holding them equally accountable for contentious laws. Following an inconclusive five-hour meeting with Union ministers, farmers remain resolute in commencing their “Delhi Chalo” march on Tuesday morning, emphasizing their demand for a law guaranteeing a minimum support price for crops. Skepticism lingers regarding the government’s commitment to addressing their grievances.

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

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.