India allows protesting farmers tractor rally on Republic Day |
Farmers protesting against Indian government`s new farm laws were granted a major concession by the authorities to stage a tractor rally in the national capital on the occasion of Republic Day. Despite serious security concerns, the police allowed the rally after the government gave the nod. This is seen as yet demonstration of good faith by the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in its stated offer to resolve all outstanding issues in the three new farm Bills that were enacted. Some 12,000 to 13,000 tractors are parked at various Delhi border points. Around 7,000 to 8,000 are at Tikri, 5,000 at Singhu and 1,000 at Ghazipur border. The police said that their number could go further up. After marathon talks, the procession has been allowed to enter the national capital from Tikri, Singhu and Ghazipur borders and after making a round on a pre-determined route of 170 kilometers in Delhi, they will return to their originating points. Delhi Police has cautioned that the rally will be held under strict vigilance because of intelligence inputs of a likely "disturbance” during peaceful protest. The rally will follow the end of the Republic Day Celebration and parade. Barricades and other security arrangements will be removed and only then the farmers will enter the national capital. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha released a statement on preparations and guidelines for the event saying they wish to not create disturbance but enhance the grace of Republic Day and win the hearts of the people. Participants have been asked to respect women, children and also not oppose police doing their duty. Every tractor will carry the National Flag along with the flag of the farmers` organisation. Also, if a vehicle tries to stop on the road without cause or encamp on the way, farmers` own volunteers will remove them.
|
|
|
|