Representatives of farmers announced their intent to continue with their planned march to Parliament on February 13, following discussions with Union ministers, including Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann facilitated the talks between the farmers and the government.
During the meeting held in Chandigarh, farmers expressed concerns over the delay in implementing their demands, notably a law to ensure minimum support price (MSP) for crops. They also highlighted the need for compensation to the families of farmers who lost their lives during previous protests and demanded improvements in crop insurance.
Although the discussions were conducted in a congenial atmosphere, farmers reaffirmed their decision to proceed with the ‘Dilli Chalo’ protest on February 13 to press for their demands. Jagjit Singh Dallewal, President of Bharti Kisan Union (Ekta Sidhupur), stated that the protest would continue unless the government addresses their grievances, particularly the legal guarantee of MSP for crops.
The ‘Dilli Chalo’ protest, reminiscent of the November 2020 demonstrations against the farm laws, is being organized by members of the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha and the Samyukta Kisan Morcha. Farmers are making preparations, including mobilizing tractors and storing rations, for the journey to the national capital.
Punjab and Haryana Police have intensified security measures, especially along the border areas of both states. Paramilitary forces will augment police presence, and special barricades have been erected at entry points between Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi to manage traffic flow and prevent any untoward incidents.
Tens of thousands of farmers from Uttar Pradesh have gathered in Noida, demanding increased compensation and developed plots in exchange for farmlands acquired by local development authorities. Police in both states have issued traffic advisories to caution commuters due to the movement of farmers on tractors.
