NEW DELHI: Security has been tightened at the Ambala-Delhi border as farmers prepare to march towards the national capital on Friday. A group, or jatha, of 101 farmers is set to begin their march from the Shambhu Border at 1 PM.
Restrictions Imposed by Authorities
- The Ambala district administration has invoked prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), banning unlawful assemblies of five or more people, as well as processions by foot or vehicles. These restrictions will remain in effect until further notice.
- Public gatherings or movements require prior approval, prompting officials to urge the farmers to reconsider their plans.
Farmers’ Plans and Statements
- Under the banners of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, farmers announced their foot march to Delhi.
- Farmer leader Pandher stated, “The ‘jatha’ of 101 farmers will march to Delhi. What the government decides is up to them, but we will begin at 1 PM from the Shambhu Border.”
Heightened Security Measures
- Police have established multi-layer barricades at the Ambala-Delhi border, with central paramilitary forces deployed. Senior officers are closely monitoring the situation, maintaining heightened vigilance since Thursday.
Broader Protest Context
- The march coincides with the 297th day of the farmers’ ongoing protest against the government.
- Meanwhile, an indefinite hunger strike at the Khanauri border has entered its 11th day.
Related Incidents
- On Thursday, 34 farmers were detained in Noida for attempting to reach Rashtriya Dalit Prerna Sthal without permission. Noida police confirmed the detainees were sent to jail.
- Earlier in the week, a march by Uttar Pradesh farmers towards Parliament was halted at the Noida border, causing major traffic disruptions.
Farmers’ Key Demands
- Legal Guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP): Farmers are demanding a legal assurance for fair crop prices.
- Freeze on Electricity Tariff Hikes: To ease the burden on agricultural activities.
- Justice for Lakhimpur Kheri Victims: Seeking accountability for the 2021 violence.
- Agricultural and Labor Reforms: Improving livelihoods through additional policy changes.
Local Grievances in Noida and Greater Noida
Farmers in these regions have distinct demands tied to land acquisition issues. Since the initial acquisitions in 1997 for industrial development, they have been seeking either 10% of abadi plots or equivalent compensation for their land.
