Farmers embarking on the 'Delhi Chalo' protest are set to amplify their agitation by blocking railway tracks across Punjab today. Farmer leaders have asked the Centre to bring an ordinance on giving a legal guarantee to MSP.
Farm leader Sarwan Singh Pandher also said the entire country is looking to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the farmers' demands and expressed hope that the farmers will get "good news" after Sunday's meeting with the Centre. "Now the ball is in the government's court," he said.
Photo Credit: PTI
Union ministers Arjun Munda, Piyush Goyal and Nityanand Rai and farmer leaders from Punjab will meet on Sunday for the fourth round of talks.
The two sides met earlier on February 8, 12 and 15, but those talks remained inconclusive.
On the fifth day of their 'Delhi Chalo' march -- called by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha -- the farmers stayed put at the Shambhu and Khanauri points of the Punjab-Haryana border as they press the Centre to accept their demands, including a legal guarantee to minimum support price (MSP) for crops.
Stay tuned for more updates:
Feb 18, 2024, 10:42 PM IST
Latest visuals from Punjab-Haryana Shambhu Border, where protesting farmers continue to stay put.
VIDEO | Latest visuals from Punjab-Haryana Shambhu Border, where protesting farmers continue to stay put. pic.twitter.com/WXQh4tfrDn
Fourth round of talks between farmer leaders and Union Ministers, in connection with the ongoing protest, underway in Chandigarh; Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann also present at the meeting.
#WATCH | Fourth round of talks between farmer leaders and Union Ministers, in connection with the ongoing protest, underway in Chandigarh; Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann also present at the meeting.
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann arrived at the meeting venue in Chandigarh to attend the fourth round of talks between farmer leaders and Union Ministers, in connection with the ongoing protest.
#WATCH | Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann arrived at the meeting venue in Chandigarh to attend the fourth round of talks between farmer leaders and Union Ministers, in connection with the ongoing protest. pic.twitter.com/RVuHwa1SxT
Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda and Nityanand Rai arrive at the meeting venue in Chandigarh, they will meet farmer leaders shortly, in connection with the ongoing protest.
#WATCH | Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda and Nityanand Rai arrive at the meeting venue in Chandigarh, they will meet farmer leaders shortly, in connection with the ongoing protest. pic.twitter.com/HiTNyeMxvm
Chandigarh: Farmer leaders arrived at Mahatma Gandhi Institute in Sector 26, ahead of the meeting with Union Ministers.
#WATCH | Chandigarh: Farmer leaders arrived at Mahatma Gandhi Institute in Sector 26, ahead of the meeting with Union Ministers. pic.twitter.com/B2vmn3NbAr
Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda and Nityanand Rai arrive at a hotel in Chandigarh, they will meet farmer leaders shortly, in connection with the ongoing protest.
#WATCH | Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda and Nityanand Rai arrive at a hotel in Chandigarh, they will meet farmer leaders shortly, in connection with the ongoing protest. pic.twitter.com/7bvD204xLg
Haridwar, Uttarakhand: On farmers' protest, Congress leader Harish Rawat says, "Last time farmers were given assurance regarding MSP, now they are restless because the election is coming and no guarantee has been given and burden of debts are increasing on them. Inflation is also increasing and these are the reasons why they are protesting...Govt must find a solution to this"
#WATCH | Haridwar, Uttarakhand: On farmers' protest, Congress leader Harish Rawat says, "Last time farmers were given assurance regarding MSP, now they are restless because the election is coming and no guarantee has been given and burden of debts are increasing on them.… pic.twitter.com/pTE1H6Z4pn
Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda and Nityanand Rai leave for Chandigarh from Delhi airport to meet farmer leaders in connection with the ongoing protest.
#WATCH | Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda and Nityanand Rai leave for Chandigarh from Delhi airport to meet farmer leaders in connection with the ongoing protest. pic.twitter.com/QtUVzR1T14
| Delhi: On Farmers' 4th round of meeting with central govt, former Haryana CM and Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda says, " I hope they can find a solution. Govt must take a decision on MSP..."
#WATCH | Delhi: On Farmers' 4th round of meeting with central govt, former Haryana CM and Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda says, " I hope they can find a solution. Govt must take a decision on MSP..." pic.twitter.com/tGLNu7mIQJ
"'Farmers' income will double', there isn't any bigger illusion than this. I want to confirm this with facts and figures. In the last 10 years, the price of edible oil has increased significantly since the (BJP) government has come into power," Siddhu said.
VIDEO | Here's what Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) said about farmers' protest at a press conference in Patiala, Punjab.
"'Farmers' income will double', there isn't any bigger illusion than this. I want to confirm this with facts and figures. In the last 10… pic.twitter.com/U8fAjdE2uR
"The government should find a solution to our demands before the code of conduct comes into force," Dallewal said. Union Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister Arjun Munda, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai will be part of the meeting with farmer leaders.
Feb 18, 2024, 1:08 PM IST
"We want to tell the government that it should avoid the policy of dilly-dallying," Dallewal told reporters at the Shambhu border point. If the government thinks it will continue to hold meetings till the code of conduct is imposed, and then say it cannot do anything as the code is in force"...farmers are not going to return", he said.
Feb 18, 2024, 1:02 PM IST
The central government should not dilly-dally and accept the demands of farmers before the model code of conduct comes into force, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal said ahead of a meeting with a panel of Union ministers on Sunday.
Feb 18, 2024, 8:54 AM IST
Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is spearheading the 'Delhi Chalo' march along with Pandher, also said that the government should bring an ordinance for "giving something to people of the country".
"The government should bring the ordinance with such an intention that it is implemented with immediate effect, and within six months, it can be converted into a law and there is no problem in that," said Dallewal.
Feb 18, 2024, 8:50 AM IST
Union ministers Arjun Munda, Piyush Goyal and Nityanand Rai and farmer leaders from Punjab will meet on Sunday for the fourth round of talks.
Feb 17, 2024, 11:07 PM IST
Farmers' Protest: Haryana Government on Saturday announced to extend internet curb till February 19. The decision has been taken to stop the spread of fake and provocative messages. There will be no bulk SMS services or internet facility available in 7 districts.
Feb 17, 2024, 10:19 PM IST
Farmers' protest: Haryana govt extends suspension of mobile internet services in 7 districts till February 19, 2024.
Feb 17, 2024, 9:45 PM IST
Addressing reporters following a panchayat in Sisauli, Muzaffarnagar, Tikait conveyed that a resolution had been adopted during the meeting, urging the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) to initiate a tractor march to Delhi in the final week of February if the government does not accede to farmers' demands.
Feb 17, 2024, 8:15 PM IST
According to a report by news agency PTI, BKU leader Rakesh Tikait declared on Saturday that farmers are planning to hold protests, or dharnas, in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, and Uttarakhand on February 21. They aim to push for their demands, which include securing a legal assurance for minimum support price (MSP).
VIDEO | Here’s what Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee leader Sarvan Singh Pandher said on farmer leaders meeting with representatives of central government.
“Entire country is looking towards PM Modi to gather up courage and take firm decision on MSP and loan interest… pic.twitter.com/AXkMjFFleJ
he farmer unions enlisted CM Mann as a mediator in their negotiations with the BJP-led Centre regarding their diverse demands, which encompass a legal assurance for minimum support price (MSP) for crops and the forgiveness of farm debts.
Feb 17, 2024, 5:55 PM IST
Farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' march: Visuals from Delhi's Singhu border as farmers' protest enters day 5.
VIDEO | Farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' march: Visuals from Delhi's Singhu border as farmers' protest enters day 5. pic.twitter.com/GBaJajiuMR
According to the reports, Farmers in Punjab have staged protests outside the houses of Punjab BJP leaders Sunil Jhakar and Capt. Amarinder Singh.
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Feb 12, 2024, 12:12 pm IST
Farmers planning to march to Delhi on February 13 have reportedly modified their tractors to effectively navigate through barricades and obstacles. Central intelligence agencies have issued alerts to Punjab, UP, Haryana, and Delhi police, notifying them about the anticipated mass movement of more than 25,000 farmers and approximately 5000 tractors.
Feb 12, 2024, 12:22 pm IST
Section 144 Imposed In Delhi
Section 144 has been imposed in the entire Delhi in view of the farmers' call for March to Delhi on 13th February: Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora
Delhi: Section 144 has been imposed in the entire Delhi in view of the farmers' call for March to Delhi on 13th February: Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora pic.twitter.com/ok59SfyjpU
Drone visuals from the Singhu border in Delhi where security arrangements have been stepped up by police ahead of the farmers' call for march to Delhi on 13th February.
#WATCH | Drone visuals from the Singhu border in Delhi where security arrangements have been stepped up by police ahead of the farmers' call for march to Delhi on 13th February. pic.twitter.com/RWJsU8q25S
RPF personnel deployed & security tightened near Ghazipur border area, ahead of the farmers' call for March to Delhi on 13th February.
#WATCH | RPF personnel deployed & security tightened near Ghazipur border area, ahead of the farmers' call for March to Delhi on 13th February. pic.twitter.com/9dyqfriGr4
General Secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, Sarvan Singh Pandher says, "We will start from Beas & stay at Fatehgarh Sahib. Our demands are the same- MSP guarantee law, Sugar cane should be joined with C200...When a farmer turns 60 years old he should be given Rs 10,000 a month...It is unfortunate that the Indian farmer is called anti-national. We are not anti-national, we are the citizens of this country...For 75 years our demands were not heard...We will move peacefully & our objective is that the government listen to our demands..."
#WATCH | General Secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, Sarvan Singh Pandher says, "We will start from Beas & stay at Fatehgarh Sahib. Our demands are the same- MSP guarantee law, Sugar cane should be joined with C200...When a farmer turns 60 years old he should… pic.twitter.com/gE66fIdQXz
Union ministers to hold talks with farmers, tractor-trolleys start from villages to join march
Union ministers are scheduled to engage in discussions with farmer leaders on Monday, as tractor trolleys from various villages in Punjab begin their journey to join the march towards Delhi, reported PTI.
In preparation for the farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' march on February 13, Haryana authorities have reinforced the state's border with Punjab in Ambala, Jind, Fatehabad, and Kurukshetra, using concrete blocks, iron nails, and barbed wire.
Additionally, restrictions have been imposed under Section 144 of the CrPC across 15 districts, prohibiting gatherings of five or more people and any demonstrations or marches with tractor-trolleys.
Feb 12, 2024, 1:01 pm IST
Section 144 in Delhi from today for a month: Delhi Police
Delhi Police, led by Commissioner Sanjay Arora, has implemented Section 144 across the national capital for a duration of one month, starting today.
This decision comes amidst heightened tension and "social unrest" due to the upcoming farmers' Delhi Chalo March on Tuesday.
The order prohibits all forms of rallies, processions, and road blockages. Additionally, tractor rallies attempting to breach the borders of the national capital have been banned.
Feb 12, 2024, 1:05 pm IST
Here’s what DCP (Shahdara) Surendra Chaudhary said when asked about the security arrangements ahead of farmers’ ‘Delhi Chalo’ march on February 13.
“We have placed barricades and security has been tightened here at Shahdara’s Seemapuri border. There will be enough staff. We will mobilise the whole district well.”
VIDEO | Here’s what DCP (Shahdara) Surendra Chaudhary said when asked about the security arrangements ahead of farmers’ ‘Delhi Chalo’ march on February 13.
“We have placed barricades and security has been tightened here at Shahdara’s Seemapuri border. There will be enough staff.… pic.twitter.com/SAcA7XTGOC
Here’s what AAP Minister Gopal Rai said when asked about the security arrangements at Delhi’s borders ahead of farmers’ ‘Delhi Chalo’ march.
“It’s very unfortunate that on the central government’s instructions, the Haryana government is crossing all the limits of cruelty against the farmers. They (police) are placing barricades and threatening the public. The nation won’t tolerate all this.”
VIDEO | Here’s what AAP Minister @AapKaGopalRai said when asked about the security arrangements at Delhi’s borders ahead of farmers’ ‘Delhi Chalo’ march.
“It’s very unfortunate that on the central government’s instructions, the Haryana government is crossing all the limits of… pic.twitter.com/I9146G2U1M
General Secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, Sarvan Singh Pandher says, "...After the meeting, a discussion with the 200 unions will take place, only then a decision will be taken...If the Prime Minister tries, he can win the hearts of the farmers..."
#WATCH | General Secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, Sarvan Singh Pandher says, "...After the meeting, a discussion with the 200 unions will take place, only then a decision will be taken...If the Prime Minister tries, he can win the hearts of the farmers..." pic.twitter.com/pOWxdfOc0b
Ambala: On farmer's protest, Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij says, "... Three ministers of the Central government have come to Chandigarh and talks of the first round have been done. The second round of talks will be done soon. I am hopeful that this issue will be resolved soon... To protect the people of Haryana and to maintain peace and harmony in the state, we will do whatever is required."
#WATCH | Ambala: On farmer's protest, Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij says, "... Three ministers of the Central government have come to Chandigarh and talks of the first round have been done. The second round of talks will be done soon. I am hopeful that this issue will be… pic.twitter.com/KjmSafXWlm
Farmers Protest Live: Makeshift jails, sealed borders, internet services suspension
Measures taken ahead of the farmers’ “Delhi Chalo” march include makeshift jails, sealed borders, and suspended internet services, with police deploying jersey barricades and issuing prohibitory orders.
Concrete barricades erected by Haryana and Delhi police, alongside additional security measures like barbed wire and road spikes, with thousands of officers stationed along the interstate border.
Conversion of two stadiums into temporary detention centres by the Haryana government, ready to house individuals if the farmers’ march proceeds.
Suspension of mobile internet services and bulk SMS in seven Haryana districts from February 11 to February 13 due to peace disruption concerns.
Haryana Police advises commuters to minimize use of major roadways on Tuesday and Delhi Traffic Police urges car owners to stay vigilant about traffic restrictions before the “Delhi Chalo” march.
Feb 12, 2024, 4:39 pm IST
Police conduct tear gas mock drill at Shambu border, ahead of farmers' call of 'Delhi Chalo' protest.
#WATCH | Police conduct tear gas mock drill at Shambu border, ahead of farmers' call of 'Delhi Chalo' protest. pic.twitter.com/81i0q1oIQ8
Here's what an advocate said on the government's efforts to stop farmers' Delhi Chalo protest.
VIDEO | Farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' protest call: Here's what advocate Uday Pratap Singh said about PIL filed in Punjab and Haryana High Court seeking removal of barricades and access to public passage in view of restrictions imposed by Haryana government.
Farmers under Kisan Mazdoor Morcha are coming to Delhi for their right, the MSP Guarantee Law which was promised to farmers during #FarmersProtest, farmers convoy is 10 Km long !!
Farmers under Kisan Mazdoor Morcha are coming to Delhi for their right, the MSP Guarantee Law which was promised to farmers during #FarmersProtest, farmers convoy is 10 Km long !! pic.twitter.com/9TX1yGVJRi
DCP Ankit Singh says, " Arrival of people in groups prohibited, can't bring tractor, trolly or any kind of lathi or weapon...Delhi Police force and CAPF deployed...we have made all the necessary arrangements to completely seal this border. This border can't be broken...till section 144 is going on, these arrangements also will continue..."
#WATCH | DCP Ankit Singh says, " Arrival of people in groups prohibited, can't bring tractor, trolly or any kind of lathi or weapon...Delhi Police force and CAPF deployed...we have made all the necessary arrangements to completely seal this border. This border can't be… https://t.co/fPJnRAHIu2pic.twitter.com/7earrRSlSC
Central government delegation, including Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda, and Nityanand Rai, reached Chandigarh for talks with farmers ahead of the Delhi March called by them. #Farmers #FarmersProtest
Central government delegation, including Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda, and Nityanand Rai, reached Chandigarh for talks with farmers ahead of the Delhi March called by them. #Farmers#FarmersProtestpic.twitter.com/jAfedjzfSC
Heavy security deployment at Delhi-Haryana border Jharoda, ahead of the farmers' call of 'Delhi Chalo' protest; Section 144 imposed in the entire Delhi.
#WATCH | Heavy security deployment at Delhi-Haryana border Jharoda, ahead of the farmers' call of 'Delhi Chalo' protest; Section 144 imposed in the entire Delhi pic.twitter.com/0raelGk3EY
Haryana Police today tested tear gas shell-dropping drone system at Shambhu border near Ambala, in view of 'Delhi Chalo' farmers protest
#WATCH | Haryana Police today tested tear gas shell-dropping drone system at Shambhu border near Ambala, in view of 'Delhi Chalo' farmers protest pic.twitter.com/333ZMuSoUe