5 key demands, 5000 officers, 1 massive protest: farmers march toward Delhi

New Delhi(The Uttam Hindu):Thousands of farmers have begun their march toward Delhi, aiming to surround the Parliament in protest against unmet demands. In response, heavy security arrangements have been made at the Delhi-Noida border, with 5,000 personnel deployed to maintain order. Noida police have implemented diversions to control traffic, yet long jams have been reported in multiple areas.

Farmers Defy Police Barricades

The farmers, marching from Greater Noida's Yamuna Authority, pushed past police barricades despite efforts to stop them. Raising slogans, the protesters advanced toward Noida's Mahamaya Flyover, intending to continue toward Delhi. According to Shiv Hari Meena, Additional Commissioner of Police (Law and Order), ongoing dialogues with the farmers aim to resolve the situation peacefully. However, the authorities are prepared to halt the march if necessary.

5,000 Personnel Deployed for Security

The police have deployed 5,000 personnel, including 1,000 from the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), to manage the situation. Water cannons, Vajra vehicles, and tear gas are on standby to maintain law and order. Traffic advisories and diversion plans were issued well in advance to minimize disruptions for commuters.

Farmers' Demands

The farmers plan to march through the Mahamaya Flyover to reach Delhi and protest at Parliament. Their primary demands include:

Increased compensation for land acquisition.

1.Allocation of 10% developed land from acquired property.

2.Implementation of market-rate compensation, four times the base rate.

3.Employment and rehabilitation benefits for affected families.

4.Failed Talks Prompt Protest Escalation

Prolonged negotiations between the farmers and officials have failed to yield results. Farmers claim that their demands have been ignored for too long, compelling them to take the protest to the national capital. Sunday’s discussions also ended inconclusively, leading to the decision to march toward Delhi.

Punjab farmers have also announced a similar march on December 6, further escalating the ongoing unrest.