Angered by the evacuation of the Shambhu and Khanauri borders of Punjab and Haryana, which had been occupied by farmers for 13 months, members of the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) and Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) attempted to surround the residence of Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat in Jalandhar.
The protest turned tense as farmers uprooted and threw away police barricades while trying to reach the minister’s house.
Clashes broke out between the police and the protesting farmers, leading to a chaotic scene. As per reports, the farmers began their march towards the minister's residence at around noon, adhering to their pre-decided schedule. Anticipating the protest, the police had already set up barricades to prevent their advance.
However, as the farmers moved forward, the police attempted to block their way using force but were ultimately unsuccessful in stopping them. The farmers reached the minister’s house and staged a dharna, which is expected to continue until approximately 3 pm.
The protest stems from the farmers’ anger over the forced clearing of the highway after 13 months of occupation. On February 13, 2024, the farmers had announced their intent to march to Delhi to press the central government for their demands.
In response, Haryana Police barricaded the Shambhu and Khanauri borders, blocking the farmers' path. Despite multiple attempts to advance towards Delhi, the police thwarted their efforts, resorting to firing tear gas shells to disperse the crowds.
The situation escalated on February 21, 2023, when a violent clash at the Khanauri border led to the death of young farmer Shubhkaran Singh. This incident fueled further resentment among the farming community. Eventually, on March 19, Punjab Police, equipped with full preparations, forcefully vacated the highway occupied by farmers.
Alongside the eviction, the police also dismantled the sheds and other makeshift structures erected by the protesting farmers, further intensifying the anger and unrest within the community.
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