14,000 farmers and 1,200 tractors prepare to resume march as Delhi heightens alert

PTC News Desk: Today marks the resurgence of farmers' protests as thousands gear up to march towards Delhi, accompanied by a fleet of 1,200 tractors. With tensions escalating, concerns loom over potential disruptions in the nation's capital. The standoff intensifies as Haryana authorities call upon Punjab to intervene and impede the arrival of heavy machinery intended to dismantle police barricades.

Following failed negotiations with the Centre regarding guarantees on minimum support prices (MSP), farmers are poised to reignite their 'Delhi Chalo' protest from the Punjab-Haryana border. Haryana Police's plea to their Punjab counterparts underscores the gravity of the situation, signaling a brewing confrontation between authorities and protestors.

#WATCH | On the 'Delhi Chalo' march today, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher says, "We tried our best from our side. We attended the meetings, every point was discussed and now the decision has to be taken by the central government. We will remain peaceful…The Prime Minister… pic.twitter.com/J2PXoUIskd — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024

Approximately 14,000 farmers, backed by 1,200 tractor trolleys, 300 cars, and 10 mini-buses, have amassed along the border, signaling the scale of the impending demonstration. Meanwhile, Delhi Police remain on high alert, engaging in tactical preparations to secure entry points and avert potential unrest as the convoy inches closer to the capital.

In anticipation of the protest's resurgence, Sarwan Singh Pandher, a prominent leader of the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, reiterated the protestors' commitment to peaceful demonstration. Pandher's plea to the government resonated with a call for the removal of barricades, facilitating an unimpeded passage towards Delhi.

"We have exhausted all avenues of dialogue and remain committed to peaceful protest. It is now imperative for the central government to make a decision. We urge authorities to allow us to dismantle these barriers and proceed towards Delhi," remarked Pandher, encapsulating the resolve of the protesting farmers.

Also Read: Farmers' Protest: Punjab-Haryana HC raps protesters, says 'tractor trolleys can’t be used on highways'

Also Read: Farmers equip for Shambhu border breach: Gas masks, modified machinery

Here are the latest developments in the farmers' protest:

1. Approximately 14,000 farmers have gathered at Shambhu on the Punjab-Haryana border, with an arsenal of 1,200 tractor trolleys, 300 cars, and 10 mini-buses en route to Delhi.

2. The Home Ministry reports 4,500 protesters with 500 tractors at the Dhabi-Gujran border point.

3. Concerns over the law-and-order situation prompt the Ministry of Home Affairs to write to the Punjab government regarding miscreants masquerading as farmers, engaging in violence and deploying heavy machinery.

4. The Ministry highlights that bulldozers and other equipment at the Shambhu border have been fortified, posing a significant threat to security forces.


5. Traffic congestion is anticipated around Delhi's three border points due to road closures, with Tikri and Singhu heavily fortified and potential closure of Ghazipur border.

6. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher calls for a one-day Parliament session to legislate MSP, rejecting the Centre's proposal on procurement and asserting farmers' right to march peacefully.

7. Pandher accuses the government of deploying paramilitary personnel to impede the march, urging adherence to constitutional rights.

8. The Punjab and Haryana High Court advises against large gatherings of farmers, stating tractor-trolleys cannot operate on highways, suggesting alternative transportation methods for the 'Delhi Chalo' march.

Also Read: Farmers' protest | Seize earthmoving equipment at borders: Haryana DGP asks his Punjab counterpart

Also Read: Farmers’ protest LIVE UPDATES: Farmers to resume ‘Delhi Chalo’ march today; 14,000 people at Shambhu border

(Inputs from agencies)

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