December 6, 2024: A large group of farmers from Punjab is set to begin their ‘Dilli Chalo’ march today, aiming to draw attention to their longstanding demands as they make their way towards the national capital. Over 100 farmers are expected to participate in the protest, which will likely lead to significant disruptions, including slow-moving traffic, as security has been beefed up at key border points, particularly at the Shambhu border on National Highway 44.

In anticipation of the march, authorities have imposed strict security measures. The Haryana Police, along with Punjab Police, have increased their presence at the Shambhu border to manage the movement of protesters and prevent any untoward incidents. Police sources confirmed that they will also be closely monitoring the Singh border and other sensitive areas, prepared to take action if the situation escalates.

In the Ambala district of Haryana, where the Shambhu border is located, the administration has invoked Section 163 of the BNSS Act, which restricts the assembly of five or more persons in public spaces. This measure is aimed at preventing any large gatherings that could obstruct the march or result in clashes. Notices have been issued around the Shambhu border, alerting the public to the restrictions.

The district of Jind in Haryana has also seen the imposition of similar measures. Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike for the past 10 days in protest, is at the heart of the ongoing farmer agitation in the region.

The farmers’ demands are wide-ranging and include a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of crops, debt relief, pension provisions for both farmers and agricultural laborers, and the reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act. They are also calling for no hike in electricity tariffs and seek justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence. Additionally, the farmers are seeking compensation for the families of those who lost their lives during the farmers' protests of 2020-21.

As the march proceeds towards Delhi, authorities are preparing for potential traffic snarls, especially in areas around the Haryana-Punjab border. Commuters are advised to plan their travel accordingly, keeping in mind the heightened security and likely disruptions to normal traffic flow.