Tensions escalate as the Haryana Police issueed a stern warning to excavator owners on Wednesday. They demand the immediate removal of the machines from the ongoing farmer protest site, where a renewed "Delhi Chalo" march is imminent. Failure to comply, authorities warn, will result in legal action.
Citing potential danger to security personnel stationed at the Punjab-Haryana border crossings, the police expressed their apprehension regarding the presence of excavators. They fear these machines could be used to damage infrastructure and harm both farmers and security forces.
A strong message was delivered through an official statement: "For owners and operators of Poclains and JCBs: Please do not supply your equipment to demonstrators and, if you have already done so, remove it from the demonstration location, since it may be used to hurt security officers. It is a non-bailable offense, and you may face criminal charges."
This action comes amidst renewed protests after farmers rejected the government's latest Minimum Support Price (MSP) proposal. Following failed negotiations, they plan to resume their march towards Delhi on Wednesday.
Further intensifying security measures, the Haryana Police have reached out to their Punjab counterparts, urging them to confiscate such equipment from the interstate border. Emphasizing the potential threat to security personnel, they requested immediate action.
Adding to the concerns, reports indicate that farmers have acquired "armour-plated" excavators and deployed them at protest sites.
The Haryana DGP claims this poses a "significant threat" to security forces and could jeopardise the state's security scenario.
Keeping in mind the imtensity of the situation, an order was passed to security personnel stating, "These devices are supposed to be used by demonstrators to destroy the barriers, presenting a significant threat to the police and paramilitary troops deployed on duty, and are likely to jeopardise the security scenario in Haryana."
''In light of this, you are urged to take every necessary action to instantly seize this equipment from the protesting sites at the borders'' it added.
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