Farmers Resume ‘Dilli Chalo’ March After No Response from Government, Shambhu Border Barricaded
New Delhi/ Shambhu Border : After more than 300 days of continuous protests, farmers in Punjab are set to resume their ‘Dilli Chalo’ march to Delhi on Sunday, December 8. This decision comes after Punjab farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher revealed that no response has been received from the central government regarding negotiations to address their ongoing concerns.
Pandher’s remarks underscore growing frustration among farmers, who have been protesting the government’s agricultural policies for over a year. Despite multiple attempts to initiate talks, the government has not reached out to the farmer unions. “We have not received any message from the central government about resuming talks,” said Pandher, adding that the farmers’ struggle will continue until their demands are met.
Shambhu Border Blocked Amid Rising Tensions
Ahead of the farmers’ planned march, security at key protest sites has been tightened. Police have erected barricades and placed nails at the Shambhu Border, one of the primary points of contention in the ongoing protests. Tensions are escalating as farmers prepare for the next phase of their journey to Delhi.
This border has seen significant clashes in the past, and authorities are taking extreme measures to prevent further escalation. Farmers, however, remain resolute, with many pledging to carry on their protest in defiance of the increased security presence.
Suspended March Resumes After Clash with Police
The farmers had temporarily halted their march on Friday, December 6, following a violent confrontation with security forces. At the Punjab-Haryana border, police used tear gas shells to disperse the protesting crowds, injuring several farmers. Despite this setback, the protestors are not backing down. A new group of 101 farmers has now joined the movement, determined to continue their march towards Delhi.
Pandher emphasized that these measures will not deter them. “The government has shown no interest in engaging in dialogue, so we will not stop our efforts,” he said, reaffirming the farmers’ commitment to pushing forward with their demands.
Farmers’ Demands and Opposition to BJP Leaders in Punjab
The core of the farmers’ protest revolves around the repeal of the controversial agricultural laws passed by the central government in 2020. Farmers argue that these laws would lead to corporate control of agriculture, undermining their livelihoods. Their primary demand is the revocation of these laws and the creation of a legal guarantee for MSP (Minimum Support Price).
In a show of resistance, Pandher also announced plans to oppose the entry of BJP leaders into Punjab. “We have heard that Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari are planning to visit Amritsar. We call on the farmers of Punjab to unite and prevent their entry into the state,” he added.
The Farmers’ Movement: A Struggle for Survival
As the protests enter their 300th day, the farmers’ movement continues to grow. Groups like Kisan Mazdoor Morcha and Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) are leading the charge, organizing mass protests and mobilizing support across India. The government’s failure to respond to the farmers’ demands has further fueled their determination to fight for their rights.
Farmers are not only demanding the repeal of the farm laws but also seeking better protections for their livelihoods, access to fair markets, and a comprehensive farm policy that guarantees their economic survival.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Farmers’ Movement?
With the march to Delhi set to continue, the coming days will likely see more intense confrontations between farmers and security forces. The issue has now reached a critical juncture, with both sides unwilling to back down. As the protests gain momentum, the farmers’ calls for dialogue and change remain as urgent as ever.