New Delhi: Farmers from several states surrounding the national capital are gearing up for their ‘Chalo Delhi’ march on Tuesday, February 13, intending to present their demands to the central government. Leaders from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh met with Union ministers on Monday evening in a last-minute effort to avert the protest, which is anticipated to cause significant disruptions in Delhi NCR.
Despite a five-hour discussion involving Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda and Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Piyush Goyal, the farmers remain steadfast in their decision to proceed with the march. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have jointly announced the march, advocating for various demands, including a legal guarantee of minimum support price (MSP) for crops.
The central issue prompting the farmers’ protest is the demand for a legal assurance of MSP. Additionally, they are seeking the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations and relief from farm debt. Security measures have been escalated at Delhi’s border points, with section 144 imposed at Uttar Pradesh borders and significant deployments of security personnel.
Over 50,000 security personnel have been stationed at the borders, with heightened security measures such as barricades and concrete blocks implemented. The protest, led by multiple farmer organizations, is expected to draw participants from 200 unions and organizations. Section 144 is in effect throughout Delhi, prohibiting gatherings of more than five individuals.
Efforts to resolve the dispute through dialogue have been ongoing, with Union Minister Arjun Munda stating that consensus was reached on some issues, while others require further discussion. However, despite the extensive talks, the meeting concluded inconclusively. In anticipation of the protest, precautions such as the establishment of makeshift jails have been taken.
The situation remains tense as both sides stand firm on their respective positions, with the farmers determined to press their demands through the ‘Chalo Delhi’ march.
#WATCH | Delhi: Security heightened at Delhi borders in view of the march declared by farmers towards the National Capital today
(Visuals from Singhu Border) pic.twitter.com/xAHhY86QWA
— ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2024
