Shambhu Border Tensions: SC Calls For 'Neutral Umpire' And Proposes Formation of Independent Committee

The Supreme Court on Wednesday suggested forming an independent committee of notable individuals to engage with the farmers and address their concerns. This recommendation follows the court's observation of a trust gap between the farmers and the government.

During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing Haryana, opposed reopening the Shambhu border. He argued that it would lead to law and order issues. "Right now there are armoured tanks at the Shambhu border," he noted.

Proposed Committee to Bridge Trust Gap

A three-judge bench led by Justice Surya Kant highlighted the need for a "neutral umpire" to build confidence between both parties. The bench also included Justices Dipankar Datta and Ujjal Bhuyan. "You have to take some steps to reach out to farmers. Why would they otherwise want to come to Delhi? You are sending Ministers from here and despite their best intentions there is trust deficit," said the bench.

The court asked Punjab and Haryana governments to propose names for committee members or suggested it could identify suitable individuals itself. The aim is to find a solution that satisfies both sides.

Maintaining Status Quo at Shambhu Border

"Let appropriate instructions be taken within a week. Till then let parties maintain status quo at the site to prevent flaring up of the situation at the Shambhu border," stated the bench. This directive aims to avoid any escalation while discussions continue.

The apex court was hearing Haryana's plea against a high court order demanding removal of barricades at Shambhu border near Ambala within a week. Farmers have been camping there since February 13.

Concerns Over Law and Order

Mehta expressed concerns about potential incidents if barricades were removed. "As a welfare State we cannot afford any untoward incident… they are prohibited on a national highway. JCB, tanks, trollies are converted into virtual war tanks. Please see the photos. I am saying this with a sense of responsibility," he said.

The court's suggestion aims to foster dialogue and reduce tensions at Shambhu border while ensuring public safety remains intact.