Chandigarh: Security was tightened along the Punjab-Haryana border on Tuesday as farmer organisations attempted to head towards Delhi for a proposed ‘Mahapanchayat’ at Kisan Ghat, where they planned to protest against the proposed India–US trade agreement. Authorities in Haryana imposed restrictions at the Shambhu border, leading to traffic disruptions and the detention of several farmers travelling towards the national capital.
Police erected multiple layers of barricades at the interstate border, effectively preventing the movement of protestors from Punjab into Haryana. The restrictions resulted in long queues of vehicles on the National Highway as well as the Chandigarh–Rajpura route, causing inconvenience to commuters throughout the day.
Farmer representatives criticised the move, alleging that the border was sealed without prior public notice. They claimed that not only protesters but also ordinary travellers were affected by the sudden restrictions. Union leaders further alleged that barricading extended close to the Punjab side of the border, demanding clarity from the state administration on the issue.
Punjab Police confirmed that traffic diversions had been put in place following the closure of the highway but did not comment further on the security arrangements.
Farmers Detained in Kurukshetra
Meanwhile, a group of farmers travelling by bus from the Pehowa area towards Delhi was intercepted by the Kurukshetra Police. The protesters were taken into preventive custody before they could continue their journey.
Farmer leaders described the detentions as an attempt to suppress their democratic right to protest. They maintained that the movement would continue and said future decisions regarding the agitation would be announced after consultations with other farmer organisations.
Trade Deal Continues to Face Opposition
Farmer unions remain firmly opposed to the proposed trade agreement between India and the United States, arguing that opening the domestic market to cheaper agricultural imports could severely affect India’s farming community.
According to union representatives, agriculture in the United States is supported by large-scale mechanised farming, extensive land holdings and substantial government subsidies. In contrast, they pointed out that most Indian farmers cultivate relatively small land parcels with limited financial support.
They fear that increased imports of lower-priced agricultural commodities could reduce domestic prices, making it difficult for small and marginal farmers to sustain their livelihoods.
With security remaining tight at the Shambhu border and protests expected to continue, authorities are closely monitoring the situation while urging people to follow traffic advisories and maintain peace.
