Farmers Protest LIVE: ‘Chalo Delhi’ March and Demands for MSP Guarantee
As tensions escalate in the Delhi-NCR region, farmers from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh have initiated the ‘Chalo Delhi’ march, demanding a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) among other key issues. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the ongoing protests and their significance.
March Commencement:
- Farmers, accompanied by counterparts from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, have embarked on the ‘Chalo Delhi’ march following inconclusive talks with the Union government.
- Despite a five-hour meeting with Union ministers Piyush Goyal and Arjun Munda, farmers remain resolute in their decision to proceed with the march.
Demands of the Protesters:
- The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha are leading the march to press for various demands, including a legal guarantee of MSP and implementation of the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations.
- Other demands include pension for farmers and farm labourers, farm debt waiver, and justice for victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri violence.
Security Measures and Precautions:
- Intensified security measures have been implemented at Singh, Tikri, and Ghazipur borders in Delhi, with cement barricades, metal nails, and barriers installed to control vehicular movement and ensure public safety.
- Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code has been imposed at Uttar Pradesh borders to prevent mishaps ahead of the protests.
- Over 50,000 security personnel have been deployed at the borders, and internet and bulk SMS services have been suspended in seven districts to manage the situation.
Significance of the ‘Chalo Delhi’ March:
- The march symbolizes the farmers’ determination to secure their rights and demand justice for their grievances.
- It underscores the urgency for the government to address issues related to agricultural policies, MSP, and farmer welfare, reflecting the deep-rooted concerns within the farming community.
The ‘Chalo Delhi’ march by farmers from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh signifies a crucial moment in the ongoing struggle for agricultural reforms and the protection of farmers’ rights. As tensions persist and security measures are heightened, the demands for a legal guarantee of MSP and other key reforms remain at the forefront of the protests. The outcome of these demonstrations will not only impact the agricultural sector but also shape the future of farmer-government relations in India. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving situation.
