Farmers Begin March Towards Delhi from Shambhu Border to Demand Implementation of 12-Point Charter

Shambhu Border: Farmers in significant numbers assembled at the Shambhu border on Friday, preparing for a peaceful march towards Delhi. Drone visuals captured the massive gathering as leaders and participants discussed their demands. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher stated that the march would be led by a group of 100 farmers, emphasizing their commitment to a non-violent approach. “We aim to proceed peacefully without breaking any barricades. We hope the government will allow us to march and protest without hindrance,” Pandher remarked.

The farmers’ protest stems from unfulfilled promises made by the government. A participant expressed frustration, saying, “Despite assurances, nothing has been delivered. We are farmers and citizens of this country, yet our rights to peaceful protest are being restricted.” The sentiment was echoed by Sukhwinder Kaur, another protester, who revealed that the group had decided to march on foot after considering requests from the Haryana government.

“We have no weapons, only flags and bags. If required, we will seek formal permission upon reaching Delhi, but we will continue our march as planned. Let us see how the government responds,” Kaur added, speaking to reporters.

The farmers’ primary grievance is the lack of a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP), which tops their list of 12 demands. According to them, while the Punjab government initially promised to address the issue, no concrete action followed. “We waited for a month, but nothing happened. We are not begging; we are only asking for what is rightfully ours,” stated another protester.

The movement, spearheaded by the Bharatiya Kisan Parishad (BKP) in collaboration with other farmer organizations, also seeks compensation and benefits tied to agricultural reforms. Farmers argue that these demands are essential for their survival and the sustenance of Indian agriculture.

Despite their peaceful intentions, the march has sparked concerns about disruptions. Police have set up barricades at the Shambhu border to prevent farmers from proceeding, while traffic on the expressway between Greater Noida and Noida has been severely affected. Long vehicle queues and jams have been reported, prompting the deployment of traffic police to manage the situation.

Farmers remain steadfast, asserting that their demands are justified and non-negotiable. They believe the protest is an opportunity to press the government for action on longstanding issues, including MSP. As the march gains momentum, the spotlight turns to the government’s response and whether it will address the farmers’ grievances or prolong the stalemate.