Farmers in India have intensified their protests against agricultural reforms, leading to heightened security measures in New Delhi. Massive traffic jams were seen in the city as barricades were set up to prevent the farmers' march. The protests have been ongoing for several months, with the farmers demanding the repeal of new laws that they believe will hurt their livelihoods. Tear gas was deployed by the police to disperse the protesters, leading to clashes between them and the security forces. Tear gas was even dropped from drones to control the protests.
The farmers' march, known as "Delhi Chalo," is part of a larger movement against three laws that were passed last year. The laws aim to liberalize farming in India, allowing private investors to enter the agricultural sector. However, the farmers fear that this will lead to the exploitation of small farmers by big corporations.
The protests have led to a multi-layered security deployment in Delhi, with concrete barricades and enhanced police presence. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has also closed multiple gates at eight metro stations. Security has been heightened at the borders of Delhi and in neighboring states, such as Haryana and Punjab. Clashes between the farmers and the police have occurred at various border points, with tear gas and water cannons being used to disperse the protesters.
The farmers are demanding the implementation of a minimum support price (MSP) for their agricultural products, which would provide them with a guaranteed income. The issue of the MSP has been a key point of contention between the farmers and the government. The farmers are also demanding the repeal of the new agricultural laws and the release of protesters who have been arrested during earlier demonstrations.
The protests have caused widespread disruption, with major roads and highways being blocked. The farmers have vowed to continue their protests until their demands are met. The government has held talks with farmer leaders, but no resolution has been reached so far.