The farmers, led by Kisan leaders Sarwan Singh Pandher and Jagjit Singh Dallewal, started a foot march towards the national capital on Thursday as part of their ongoing ‘Delhi Chalo’ protest. About 100 farmers started the march from Shambhu border.
Explaining the decision, Pandher said, “We have been staying here for the last eight months. In response to allegations that our tractors have been replaced, we have decided to march on foot to Delhi.” He added that the organization has received the support of Khap Panchayats and members of businessmen.
The farmers listed 12 demands, including legal guarantee of Minimum Support Price (MSP) and justice for the victims of Lakhimpur Kheri violence. Pandher reiterated their commitment to peaceful protests. “The Haryana authorities have accused us of carrying weapons, but we will march peacefully,” he said.
In response, the Haryana government imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) in Ambala, banning public gatherings and protests. Security measures, including the deployment of troops, drones, and water cannons, have been put in place.
The farmers appealed to the government to allow the march to continue without interruption. “We want the government to let us exercise our democratic right to protest,” said Pandher.
The march comes after months of stalled communication with the central government. “In February, we had four talks, but since February 18, there has been no more dialogue,” Pandher noted, calling for renewed talks to address farmers’ concerns.
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