'Delhi Chalo' farmers protest
In the ongoing ‘Delhi Chalo’ protest by farmers, now entering its second day, a unique strategy has emerged amidst the standoff. Farmers, predominantly from Punjab, have taken to the skies, flying kites to counter government drones used to drop tear gas canisters on them.
Their demands remain resolute as they march towards Delhi, seeking a legal guarantee for the minimum support price (MSP) and other agricultural reforms. Tensions escalated at the Shambhu border near Ambala, where security personnel resorted to firing tear gas shells at the protesters.
The farmers’ innovative tactic involves using the long strings of kites to entangle the drones’ rotors, potentially causing them to crash. Meanwhile, Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda appealed for constructive dialogue, urging the farmers to refrain from actions disrupting normal life.
Despite the impasse between the Centre and farmer leaders, the protesters persist at the Shambhu border, poised to overcome multi-layered barricades. Young farmers mobilized their tractors, ready to dismantle cemented blocks obstructing their path.
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Confrontations escalated as Haryana security forces deployed tear gas shells, prompting farmers to take precautions. Equipped with water bottles, wet clothes, and protective gear, they aimed to mitigate the effects of tear gas exposure.
Prominent farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher criticized the government for prioritizing corporate interests over the farmers’ demands. “We urge the government to cease these actions and foster a positive environment. We were prepared for discussions yesterday and remain open to them today,” stated Mr. Pandher.
Central to their demands is the enactment of a law ensuring an MSP for crops, alongside calls for the repeal of the Electricity Act 2020, compensation for farmers affected in Lakhimpur Kheri, and the withdrawal of cases against those involved in the movement.
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