The Ministry of Home Affairs issued an advisory to the Punjab government to maintain law and order amid intensifying farmers' protests. Pics/ PTI
Updated On: 2024-02-21 05:49 PM IST
Compiled by : Sanjana Deshpande
The farmers resumed their protest--which had been put on hold--after rejecting Union government's proposal to purchase crops at Minimum Support Price (MSP) sparking concerns over potential unrest.
Over 10,000 persons in vehicles including tractor-trolleys and cars have gathered along the Punjab-Haryana border, the MHA stated in their communication.
The reports prepared by central security agencies stated that nearly 14,000 persons have gathered at Shambhu barrier with nearly 1,200 tractor-trolleys, 300 cars, 10 mini-buses and other small vehicles.
Likewise, Punjab allowed a gathering of around 4,500 people with close to 500 tractor-trolleys at the Dhabi-Gujran barrier, the ministry claimed.
The MHA, in their advisory, expressed objections to the Punjab government over deteriorating law-and-order situation and said that there was a need for immediate action.
MHA urged the Punjab Government to take strict action against potential miscreants, raising concerns about individuals exploiting the situation for unlawful activities.
Meanwhile, Delhi Police heightened security measures at Tikri, Singhu, and Ghazipur borders in anticipation of continued agitation by protesting farmers. Concurrently, Haryana Police have instructed owners of excavators to remove machines from protest site to avoid liability for any ensuing actions.
Farmer leaders recently rejected the government proposal after fourth round of talks, citing it to be unfavourable to farmers' interests.
A panel of three Union Ministers had proposed that government agencies would buy pulses, maize and cotton at the MSP for five years after agreeing with farmers.