SC directs partial reopening of Shambhu Border, Farmers plan I-Day Tractor March
HARISH MONGA
Ferozepur, August 12, 2024: The Supreme Court of India has directed the governments of Punjab and Haryana to explore the possibility of partially reopening the Shambhu border, where farmers have been protesting since February 13 under the twin farmer forums Sayunukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM).
Sarwan Singh Pandher, farmer leader from Punjab in his video message said that we have not seen the court's orders so far. However, everyone is in favour of the opening of the national highway at the Shambhu border which will be convenient for any emergency services like Ambulance besides we will also get a chance to register our protest by reaching Delhi. In the meantime, we are working on our program Tractor March on Aug 15 on Independence Day at the district headquarters and burning copies of anti-farmer laws, with a warning that in case the farmer's demands are not accepted, another new massive plan will be planned. We will not compromise with the offers from the government of MSP on 5 crops for 5 years on an experimental basis. Our protest would continue, till our demands are met.
As per the reports, the court's directives include - a meeting between senior officials: Senior police officials from both states, as well as district officials from Patiala and Ambala, must meet within a week to discuss the partial reopening of the border.
Prioritising the essential services, the court has emphasized the need for partial reopening to facilitate the movement of, Ambulances, Essential services, Senior citizens, Women, Students, Local commuters
Regarding clearing the road, the states have been encouraged to negotiate with the protesting farmers to clear the road of tractors and trolleys, as highways should not be used as parking spaces.
Giving an open option, regarding the implementation without a court order, if both states can reach an agreement on the modalities, they can implement the resolution immediately without waiting for a court order.
On the formation of a committee, the Court had said, a detailed order regarding the formation of a committee to negotiate with the farmers will be passed on the next hearing scheduled for August 22.