Today, farmers stationed at the Shambhu border once again attempted to march towards Delhi. A group of 101 farmers advanced but halted their march after being met with tear gas by Haryana security forces. Punjab farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher reported that at least 8 farmers were injured, with one taken to Chandigarh PGI. Speaking to reporters, Pandher stated that the group had been called back.
Following the decision to suspend the march, the United Farmer Front (non-political) and Farmer Worker Front held a press conference. During this, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher revealed that after deliberation, they decided to regroup the farmers and desist from progressing towards Haryana in peaceful protest. It was understood that the group of 101 farmers wasn't equipped to face Haryana police. Pandher claimed that the central government perceives to wield the power of propaganda, insinuating possession of weapons on their side.
In a surprising revelation, the farmer leader reported that media personnel were barred from the protest area today. He further noted that right after showering flowers, the police resorted to tear gas and rubber bullets. Pandher confirmed that 6 to 8 farmers were injured, with one being referred to PGI, Chandigarh. He stated that both farmer groups will convene tomorrow to decide the next course of action, followed by a press conference to announce plans.
Source: aajtak
It is noteworthy that the farmers' group started the march from Shambhu border on Sunday afternoon but were quickly halted by multilayer barricading set up by Haryana security. Tear gas was launched at protesting farmers while water cannons were used to disperse them upon reaching the barricades. Ambala police had earlier stated only authorized marches towards the national capital could proceed.
DSP Shahabad Ramkumar stated that police personnel were present at Shambhu border since morning. 'We had clear instructions to verify identity and permits before allowing farmers to proceed, but the farmers disagreed,' he remarked. 'We want them to proceed peacefully and only after obtaining permission.' He noted, noteworthy, roses were showered on farmers at the Shambhu border.
Source: aajtak
Protesters Asked for ID Cards
At Shambhu border, one protesting farmer voiced, 'Police are asking for ID cards; they should assure passage to Delhi. If no permission for Delhi, why give ID? We'll provide IDs only if they allow entry to Delhi.'
Source: aajtak
