Farmers' Protest Enters 296th Day
Amid tensions over Shambhu Border closure, farmers will march to Delhi peacefully
HARISH MONGA
Ferozepur, December 4, 2024: With just two days left for the planned ‘Dilli Chalo’ march on December 6, uncertainty looms over the opening of the Shambhu border as Section 144 has been imposed in Ambala by the Haryana government. The farmers’ determination clashes with heightened security measures, raising concerns about the government's intentions.
The Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee (KMSC) of Punjab remains steadfast. Sarwan Singh Pandher, a prominent leader, took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice concerns, stating, “Farmers will march to Delhi peacefully, but the government's actions—deploying paramilitary forces and water cannons—reflect misplaced priorities. The Centre should heed Vice President Dhankhar's advice and engage in dialogue.”
Meanwhile, the Haryana government has intensified measures to deter the protest. Notices have been issued at the Shambhu border protest site, cautioning farmers against the march. The government has also sent notices to the residences of two key farmer leaders: Jaswinder Singh Longowal, president of BKU Azad, in Sangrur, and Sarwan Singh Pandher in Amritsar district.
The notices cite law and order concerns, enforcing Section 144, which bans gatherings of five or more people in Ambala. Farmers have been urged to reconsider their march and secure written approval from Delhi Police, which has reportedly denied permission due to the ongoing Parliament session.
The 296-day-old protest reflects the enduring resilience of farmers despite government roadblocks. However, with increased tensions and no signs of the Shambhu border reopening, the coming days will determine the next chapter in this long-standing struggle.