Amidst escalating tensions surrounding the ‘Dilli Chalo’ call by Punjab farmers on February 13, the Haryana government, under Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, has taken robust measures to maintain law and order. These actions of imposing section 144 come as a response to the anticipated farmer march to Delhi and the subsequent potential disruption it could cause. Here are the key developments:
Firstly, Section 144 has been enforced in Panchkula, Haryana, signaling a prohibition on various activities including processions, demonstrations, and the carrying of weapons. The restrictions extend to foot marches, tractor trolleys, and vehicles, as confirmed by Panchkula DCP Sumer Singh Pratap.
Secondly, in a bid to control the flow of information and prevent potential unrest, the Haryana government has suspended mobile internet, bulk SMS, and dongle services in several districts until February 13. This suspension encompasses bulk SMS and dongle services, while mobile internet shutdowns affect seven districts including Ambala, Kurukshetra, and Hisar, as per an official notification.
Furthermore, Haryana Police have taken proactive measures by blocking one side of the Patiala-Delhi national highway at the Data Singhwala-Khanauri border. Heavy police forces, including women personnel, have been deployed to deter Punjab farmers from proceeding towards the national capital.
Senior police officials, including Hisar Range ADGP Matta Ravi Kiran, have personally visited the border areas to oversee enforcement efforts and ensure stringent measures are in place to prevent Punjab farmers from entering Delhi on February 13.
Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) Lakhowal in Ludhiana has announced its decision not to participate in the ‘Delhi Chalo’ protest. However, they have vowed to oppose any mistreatment of farmers during the march, indicating a nuanced stance in the ongoing saga.
In a significant development, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher disclosed that the Centre has extended an invitation for discussions on farmer demands on February 12. Union ministers Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda, and Nityanand Rai are slated to engage in talks with farmer representatives in Chandigarh, indicating a potential avenue for dialogue and resolution.
The meeting, scheduled to take place a day before the proposed ‘Delhi Chalo’ march, underscores the urgency of addressing farmer grievances and finding common ground to alleviate tensions.
In light of the heightened security measures and potential disruptions, passengers traveling from Delhi to Chandigarh have been advised to utilize alternative routes via Karnal, Indri/Pipli, or Yamunanagar. This advisory comes amidst road closures and barricades at the Shambhu border in Ambala, underscoring the logistical challenges posed by the anticipated farmer protest.
Additionally, police forces have fortified the Shambhu border in Ambala with concrete blocks, barbed wire, sandbags, and barricades to prevent protesters from advancing towards the national capital, signaling a firm stance on maintaining law and order.
Finally, farmer unions have issued a stern warning, asserting that significant action of imposition of section 144 will be taken in Haryana if the police resort to the use of force or any form of oppression against their counterparts. This sentiment reflects the underlying tensions and the potential for escalation in the days ahead.
As the situation continues to evolve, stakeholders remain vigilant, navigating a delicate balance between upholding democratic rights and preserving public safety amidst the backdrop of ongoing farmer protests.
