Delhi Gears Up for Traffic Snarls Amidst Farmer Protests After Prohibitory Orders in Ambala

December 6, 2024: New Delhi: The national capital is preparing for significant traffic disruptions as farmers plan their “Dilli Chalo” march to Parliament from the Shambhu border on Thursday. In response, prohibitory orders have been imposed in Haryana’s Ambala to prevent large gatherings and maintain order.

Here are the top updates on the situation:

1. March Details: The march is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. from the Shambhu border, marking the second such protest this week.
2. Earlier Disruptions: On Monday, farmers from Uttar Pradesh attempted to march to Parliament but were stopped at Noida. The protest caused massive traffic jams on both sides of the Delhi-Noida border.
3. Farmers’ Demands: Protesters, under the banner of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political), are calling for legal guarantees on Minimum Support Price (MSP), farm debt waivers, pensions for farmers and laborers, and the withdrawal of police cases. They are also seeking justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence.
4. Protest Camps: Farmers have been stationed at Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13, after security forces stopped their previous march to Delhi.
5. Prohibitory Orders in Effect: Ambala authorities have invoked prohibitory orders under Section 144, banning gatherings of more than four people, effectively preventing marches on foot, vehicles, or other means.
6. Heightened Security: Central paramilitary forces and multi-layer barricades have been deployed on the Haryana side of the border. Senior police officials are actively monitoring the situation.
7. Supreme Court Statement: Earlier this week, the Supreme Court emphasized the right to peaceful protest but urged demonstrators not to obstruct highways or inconvenience the public. “In a democracy, protests must not interfere with the lifelines of regions,” said Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan.
8. Tensions at Khanauri Border: The protests turned tragic on February 21 when a Punjab farmer, Shubhkaran Singh, died during clashes at the Khanauri border. Security forces used tear gas to disperse the demonstrators attempting to move toward Delhi.
9. Traffic Advisory: Delhi commuters are being warned of potential delays and disruptions due to the anticipated march. Monday’s experience has prompted authorities to prepare alternative traffic arrangements.
10. Key Message: The farmers’ movement, driven by issues like MSP and justice for past violence, continues to spark national debate on balancing democratic rights and public convenience.

As the situation unfolds, authorities are bracing for a delicate balancing act between ensuring public order and respecting the right to protest.

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