• By Vivek Raj
  • Wed, 14 Feb 2024 08:35 AM (IST)
  • Source:JND
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The farmers, who declared a "ceasefire" last night, have reiterated their determination to push forward today to reach the capital and assert their key demands despite prohibitory orders and a heavy security presence aimed at thwarting their progress.

Tuesday witnessed echoes of the 2020-21 protests as tear gas and water cannons were employed to prevent farmers from crossing the Punjab-Haryana border, reminiscent of the prolonged demonstrations that paralyzed Delhi's borders for 13 months.

Prepared for an extended struggle, the farmers have stockpiled diesel to fuel their journey and enough provisions to sustain them for six months, until their demands are met.

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Despite the government's acceptance of a few demands, tensions persist over three pivotal issues: a law on Minimum Support Price (MSP), farm loan waivers, and the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission recommendations.

Efforts to break the deadlock continue, with the government calling for further dialogue, yet farmers remain skeptical, accusing authorities of stalling progress. Union Minister Anurag Thakur urged farmers to refrain from violence and arson, inviting them for renewed discussions.

Security measures have been intensified around Delhi, with concrete barricades and tyre deflators fortifying borders, particularly at the Shambhu border between Punjab and Haryana, where confrontations unfolded yesterday.

Public gatherings have been prohibited throughout Delhi for a month, and strict restrictions on vehicle movements across borders have been enforced, causing traffic disruptions and delays for commuters. Delhi witnessed a heavy snarl of traffic on Tuesday, leaving commuters stranded for hours. A similar situation is expected on Wednesday as well.

Despite obstacles, farmers managed to breach several layers of barricades, camping overnight at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders. Senior Delhi cop directed security personnel to show more aggression if protesting farmers are being aggressive.

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Delhi Traffic Police have issued advisories regarding traffic diversions around Tikri, Jharoda, and Dhansa borders between Delhi and Haryana, as commuters navigate through the ongoing protests.