Chandigarh: Security has been significantly strengthened at the Shambhu Border as farmers prepare to intensify their protest against the proposed India–US trade agreement. Anticipating a fresh attempt by protesters to move towards the national capital, the Haryana administration has deployed a large police contingent and reinforced the border with heavy barricading.
Police personnel have been stationed in large numbers at strategic points, while JCB machines and other equipment have been kept on standby near barricades to prevent any breach if protesters attempt to cross into Haryana.
Initially, farmer organisations had announced a united ‘Delhi Chalo’ march. However, after reviewing the security situation, protest leaders revised their strategy. Under the new plan, farmers from Haryana will continue their march towards Delhi, while Punjab-based farmers, particularly those from the Rajpura region, will assemble at the Shambhu Border to demonstrate their opposition to the proposed trade pact.
The altered plan comes amid expectations of possible restrictions along the Haryana border, where authorities have adopted extensive precautionary measures to maintain law and order.
Tension remained high at the Shambhu Border throughout the morning as farmers gathered in increasing numbers while police closely monitored the situation. Officials have appealed to protesters to maintain peace and avoid any confrontation during the demonstrations.
Farmer groups argue that the proposed trade agreement could adversely affect the agricultural sector and have demanded that the Centre address their concerns before moving forward with any such arrangement.
With both sides standing firm, all eyes remain on the Shambhu Border, where developments throughout the day are expected to determine the course of the latest phase of the farmers’ agitation.
