Tensions are brewing as thousands of farmers prepare to march on Delhi for their “Delhi Chalo” protest scheduled for February 13th. Here’s a summary of the latest developments:
Key Points:
- Demand: Farmers are demanding higher Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, loan waivers, and repeal of three contentious farm laws passed in 2020.
- Preparation: Intelligence reports suggest around 15,000-20,000 farmers could reach Delhi on tractors, with rehearsals conducted across several states.
- Section 144: Prohibitory orders imposed in Delhi to prevent gatherings of four or more people, raising concerns about potential clashes.
- Opposition: While farmers remain resolute, the government maintains an open dialogue stance, but hasn’t offered concrete solutions yet.
Additional Information:
- The farmers’ agitation has been ongoing for months, with protests erupting across several states, particularly in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
- Concerns exist about possible disruptions and violence during the march, prompting security measures by authorities.
- Farmer unions have accused the government of neglecting their demands and failing to address their concerns.
- The government maintains the farm laws are beneficial for farmers and open to discussions within the existing legal framework.
Delhi Chalo march: Around 15,000-20,000 farmers may reach national capital says intel report
The report also stated that the farmers’ unions conducted 40 rehearsals before the scheduled march, of which 10 were conducted in Haryana and 30 in Punjab. In Punjab, majority of these rehearsals were conducted in the border district of Gurdaspur.
Farmers from Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Kerala, and Karnataka are expected to participate in the agitation. Farmer organisations have organised over 100 meetings in connection with the agitation.
The farmers’ unions, including Samyukta Kisan Morcha and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, called for the march to draw the Central government’s attention to many demands such as the enactment of a law ensuring a minimum support price (MSP) for crops.
The Delhi Police report also said anti-social elements may participate in this agitation and disrupt law and order
Tractors to the Capital: Farmers March for Change
Thousands of farmers across India are getting their tractors ready for a big march to Delhi, the capital city. They call it “Delhi Chalo,” which means “Let’s go to Delhi!” They’re planning to reach the city on February 13th to protest against some laws they don’t like.
Why are they protesting?
These farmers are angry about three laws passed by the government in 2020. They say these laws will make their lives harder and hurt their income. They want the government to change these laws or get rid of them completely.
One main concern is about the price they get for their crops. Farmers want guaranteed minimum prices, called MSP, for their crops. This way, they know they won’t get cheated and always have a fair income. They worry the new laws might affect these guaranteed prices.
Another concern is about selling their crops. The new laws allow farmers to sell to anyone, anywhere in the country. Farmers worry this will hurt small markets and local traders they usually sell to. They also fear big companies might take advantage of them.
What does the government say?
The government says the new laws are actually good for farmers and will give them more freedom to sell their crops. They say they’re open to talking and finding solutions, but they won’t just get rid of the laws.
Will the march be peaceful?
The farmers are determined to reach Delhi and make their voices heard. They say they want a peaceful protest, but there are worries about possible clashes with police or other groups. The government has already taken steps to keep things calm, like banning large gatherings in Delhi.
What happens next?
All eyes are on February 13th. Will the farmers’ march be peaceful and successful? Will the government listen to their demands? This protest could have a big impact on the lives of millions of farmers and the whole country.