The ongoing farmer protest in India has escalated with reports of tear gas shellings, barricades, and other forceful measures being deployed by the government to quell the demonstrators. The protests primarily centred around Delhi’s borders, have garnered international attention as farmers continue to demand reforms and voice their grievances against the government’s agricultural policies.
At the Shambhu border near Ambala, Haryana Police have resorted to testing tear gas shell-dropping drones, raising concerns about the militarization of the response to peaceful protests. Images from the ground depict a scene of heightened tension, with spikes, boulders, and barricades erected to impede the farmers’ progress. Despite these obstacles, farmers remain undeterred, with tractor-trolleys lining up and thousands converging near the Fatehgarh Sahib area to march towards Delhi.
The Indian government’s response to the protests has drawn criticism, particularly regarding the use of tear gas and the imposition of barricades. The decision to fortify borders with nails, concrete slabs, and barbed wire has been met with condemnation, with many accusing the government of attempting to stifle dissent rather than address the farmers’ concerns.
Congress Minister Jayram Ramesh’s revelation of Congress’ involvement in the protest has added a political dimension to the ongoing standoff, highlighting the deep-seated divisions within Indian politics regarding agricultural reforms. However, farmer leaders maintain that their demands transcend partisan interests and are focused on securing a fair deal for all farmers across the country.
Despite inconclusive talks between farmer representatives and central ministers, the protesters remain steadfast in their demands. The failure to reach agreements on key issues such as minimum support prices for crops and farm loan waivers has only fueled the determination of the farmers to continue their march towards Delhi.
The Delhi Police’s heavy-handed approach, including the imposition of a one-month ban on public gatherings and the fortification of borders, has further inflamed tensions. Farmers see these measures as an affront to their democratic rights and a reflection of the government’s unwillingness to engage in meaningful dialogue.
With more than 250 farmer unions involved in the protest, the movement represents a broad cross-section of agricultural communities united in their struggle for justice. As the “Delhi Chalo” march presses on, the resolve of the farmers remains unyielding, signalling a protracted battle ahead in the fight for agrarian reform in India.