The ongoing farmer protests in India have escalated once again, as tensions between the protesting farmers and law enforcement reach a boiling point. In a recent development, Aaj Tak reporter Satyendra Chauhan was injured while covering the protests live. During his report, Chauhan exclaimed, “mujhe goli lag gayi” (I’ve been shot), sending shockwaves through the media community. Fortunately, it was later confirmed that he had been struck by a rubber bullet and is currently in stable condition.
The incident highlights the increasingly volatile situation surrounding the farmer protests, which have been ongoing for months, primarily against agricultural reforms introduced by the Modi government. Reports of tear gas being fired on protesting farmers have further exacerbated tensions, particularly at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu Border.
Haryana Police reportedly fired tear gas on farmers at the Shambhu Border, where clashes between farmers and law enforcement have become a recurring theme. In a bold move, protesting farmers used their tractors to forcibly remove cement barricades in an attempt to cross the Haryana-Punjab border, signalling their determination to press on with their demands.
The use of tear gas drones by police forces underscores the intensifying tactics employed to disperse the protesting farmers. Despite facing resistance, the farmers have managed to break and dispose of barricades at the Shambhu border, demonstrating their resolve to continue the protest until their demands are met.
Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee General Secretary Sarwan Singh Pandher commented on the situation, stating, “Around 10,000 people are here at the Shambhu border. The farmers are maintaining a peaceful situation here, and tear gas is being used against us through drones.” Pandher affirmed that the protest will persist until the government addresses their grievances.
In response to the escalating protests, authorities have enforced Section 144 in the capital for a month, restricting the entry of tractor-trolleys and large assemblies. A substantial force of over 2000 personnel, including Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and Crime Branch staff, has been deployed to maintain vigilance and control the situation.
As the farmer protests continue to gain momentum, the clash between authorities and protestors underscores the deep-seated discontent and the determination of farmers to have their voices heard. The situation remains fluid, with both sides bracing for further confrontations in the days ahead.