Centre Raises Concerns Over Punjab-Haryana Border Protests

The Centre has raised strong objections to the Punjab government over the gathering of protesters along the Punjab-Haryana border, expressing concerns about the deteriorating law-and-order situation and urging strict action against lawbreakers.

The Centre has expressed strong objections to the Punjab government regarding the gathering of approximately 14,000 people along the Punjab-Haryana border. According to sources, the Union Home Ministry conveyed its concerns in a communication to the Punjab government, highlighting the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the state over the past few days.

Large Gathering and Miscreant Activities

The home ministry reported that nearly 14,000 individuals have been allowed to assemble at the Shambhu barrier on Rajpura-Ambala Road, accompanied by around 1,200 tractor-trolleys, 300 cars, 10 mini-buses, and other small vehicles. Additionally, Punjab has permitted a gathering of approximately 4,500 people with close to 500 tractor-trolleys at the Dhabi-Gujran barrier.

The home ministry expressed concern over the presence of miscreants and law-breakers who have been engaging in stone-pelting and mobilizing heavy machinery along the Shambhu border with Haryana. These actions are seen as deliberate attempts to spread unrest and disorder in neighboring states.

Rejection of MSP Proposal and Planned March

Protesting farmers, who have been staying at Shambhu and Khanauri points on Punjab's border with Haryana, rejected the Centre's proposal to procure pulses, maize, and cotton at MSP by government agencies for five years. They deemed the proposal as not in the farmers' interest and announced their intention to march towards the national capital on Wednesday.

Home Ministry's Request for Action

In light of the deteriorating situation, the home ministry urged the Punjab government to take immediate action to curb disruptive activities under the guise of farmers' protests. The ministry also highlighted the court's objections to the large gatherings, particularly the use of tractor-trolleys, JCBs, and other heavy equipment on highways.

Call for Stringent Action

The home ministry emphasized the need for stringent action to address the marked deterioration in the law-and-order machinery in Punjab. The ministry requested the state government to take appropriate measures to handle the ongoing agitation by protesting farmers effectively.

The Centre's concerns over the gathering along the Punjab-Haryana border and the deteriorating law-and-order situation highlight the urgency of addressing these issues. The Punjab government is expected to take necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of its citizens and prevent any further escalation of tensions.