Farmers Postpone 'Dilli Chalo' March' but Vow to Continue Protest

Farmer Protest: Farmers protesting at the Haryana-Punjab border for demands such as a legal guarantee of Minimum Support Price (MSP) have called off their planned 'Dilli Chalo' march for today. However, the protest remains ongoing, according to farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher.

'Movement will continue'

Pandher explained, "We have decided to withdraw today's group. But the movement will continue. One farmer has been sent to PGI (hospital), and eight or nine others have been injured. The weather is also unfavorable. After the meeting, we will announce our future strategy. The police have used tear gas and rubber bullets against us."

The protesters, who are marching to demand a legal framework for MSP, have reported injuries from tear gas shells fired by the police.

Tensions at the Haryana Border

The farmers began their march on Sunday with a group of 101 protesters aiming to reach Delhi. Around noon, farmers from Punjab reached the Haryana border but were stopped by the Haryana Police. Authorities used tear gas to disperse the group and urged the farmers not to violate the law. In a symbolic gesture, the police also threw flowers at the protesters, though this did not de-escalate the situation.

When the farmers persisted in their march, the police resorted to firing tear gas shells again. At least four farmers sustained injuries during these actions. The protesters maintain that their intentions are peaceful but accuse the Haryana Police of blocking their march and using excessive force.

Govt maintaining silence: Pandher

Farmer leader Pandher had initially announced the march on Saturday after a similar attempt on Friday was postponed. The decision to defer Saturday’s march was made after several protesters were injured and in the hope of initiating dialogue with the government.

Pandher expressed frustration over the lack of response from the central government, stating on Saturday, "No message has been received from the central government for talks on the farmers' issues."

Despite today's withdrawal, the farmers remain steadfast in their demands and plan to outline their next steps after internal discussions. The movement underscores their insistence on securing a legal guarantee for MSP and other key issues affecting the agricultural community.