Key Highlights:
- Date and Location: On December 14, 101 farmers from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha prepare for a peaceful march from the Shambhu border on the Haryana-Punjab border to Delhi.
- Heavy Security Measures: Haryana Police has bolstered barricading and deployed paramilitary forces to prevent the march, following two previous failed attempts.
- Dallewal’s Hunger Strike: Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a Punjab farmer leader, has been on a hunger strike at the Khanauri border since November 26, demanding a legal guarantee of Minimum Support Price (MSP). His health has reportedly deteriorated significantly.
- United Fight: SKM leaders Rakesh Tikait and Harinder Singh Lakhowal emphasize unity among farmer groups to pressurize the government.
Ambala: The Haryana-Punjab Shambhu border remains a hotspot for farmer protests as a group of 101 farmers plans to march to Delhi on foot today, marking the third attempt since December 6. Despite tightened barricading and the presence of paramilitary forces, the farmers, under the banners of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, remain resolute in their mission.
Deteriorating Health Sparks Concern
SKM leader Rakesh Tikait visited the Khanauri border on Friday to meet farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, whose hunger strike has entered its 18th day. Dallewal has reportedly lost 14 kilograms and refuses to end his protest until the government engages in meaningful dialogue to address farmers’ demands, including a legal MSP guarantee.
Tikait expressed deep concern for Dallewal’s health, stating, “Farmers across the nation are worried. The government must take notice of his condition and act swiftly to meet his demands.” He also hinted at ongoing efforts to unify farmer groups, noting that a committee has been formed to coordinate strategies for future actions.
Farmers Vow Peaceful Protest
At the Shambhu protest site, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher reiterated the peaceful intentions of the march, questioning the Haryana government’s rationale for blocking 101 farmers walking on foot. “The government should explain how this poses a threat. Instead of creating obstacles, it should hold talks before we escalate our agitation,” Pandher said.
Escalating Tensions at Shambhu Border
The farmers have faced strong resistance during previous marches on December 6 and December 8, with Haryana Police using tear gas to disperse crowds. Many farmers were injured in the process, further intensifying their resolve.
Today’s march marks a critical juncture as farmers aim to break the deadlock. Security forces have fortified the border, but protestors remain undeterred.
Background of the Protest
The agitation at Shambhu and Khanauri borders began on February 13, driven by demands for better farmer rights, including an MSP guarantee. Dallewal’s hunger strike has emerged as the focal point of the protests, amplifying the urgency for government intervention.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the Shambhu border, where the farmers’ persistence is met with heightened security measures. Will dialogue prevail, or will tensions escalate further? The coming days hold the answer.
