Asia Press Agency

Tag: Section 144

  • Farmers ‘Delhi Chalo’ March: Latest Updates

    Farmers ‘Delhi Chalo’ March: Latest Updates

    Several farmer associations, predominantly from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab, have mobilized for a march scheduled on February 13 in New Delhi. This collective action stems from the farmers’ resolute demand for a law ensuring Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their agricultural produce, a condition they emphasized upon during the withdrawal of their protests in 2021. However, the Haryana government has taken preemptive measures, sealing its border with Punjab using barbed wires and concrete blocks to thwart the proposed ‘Dilli Chalo’ march by the aggrieved farmers. Additionally, the Delhi Police has issued a traffic advisory to alleviate potential congestion on the city’s roads.

     

    The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have jointly announced the participation of over 200 farm unions in the forthcoming march to Delhi on February 13, aiming to compel the Centre to accede to various demands, notably the enactment of legislation guaranteeing MSP for crops.

     

    Delhi Traffic Police has released an advisory in anticipation of the planned farmers’ march, outlining the necessary precautions and alternate routes for commuters.

     

    Apart from MSP assurance, the farmers are advocating for the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations, pensions for farmers and laborers, farm debt waivers, withdrawal of police cases, and justice for victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri violence.

     

    The Haryana government has imposed Section 144 of the CrPC in 15 districts, prohibiting assemblies of five or more individuals and banning protests or marches within the state.

     

    Mobile internet services and bulk SMS have been suspended in seven Haryana districts from February 11 to 13 to preempt any unrest.

     

    Section 144 has also been enforced by the Chandigarh administration for 60 days due to the proposed farmers’ protest.

     

    Delhi Police has invoked Section 144, restricting gatherings to no more than two people in public areas at the borders between the national capital and Uttar Pradesh, alongside nearby regions in the northeast district’s jurisdiction. Furthermore, entry of vehicles carrying protesters from Uttar Pradesh into Delhi has been barred.

     

    Enhanced security measures have been implemented near Delhi’s Tikri border, including the placement of large containers, cemented and iron barricades, and water cannons to avert any untoward incidents.

     

    The Centre has extended an invitation to farmer representatives for a meeting on February 12 to address their grievances, with senior officials scheduled to engage in talks with delegations from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha.

     

    Leaders of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) Lakhowal have declared their intention to abstain from the ‘Delhi Chalo’ protest on February 13, opting instead to protest any mistreatment of farmers during the march. They plan to launch the ‘Gramin Bharat Bandh’ protest on February 16.

     

    The upcoming farmers’ march in Delhi underscores the persistent grievances of agricultural communities regarding MSP and other related issues. Despite government measures to deter the protest, farmer unions remain resolute in their pursuit of equitable policies and justice for the farming community.

  • Delhi Police: Security Ahead of Farmers Delhi Chalo March

    Delhi Police: Security Ahead of Farmers Delhi Chalo March

    Amidst the looming threat of the farmers’ ”Delhi Chalo March”, the Delhi Police has significantly heightened security measures at Singhu, Ghazipur, and Tikri borders. In a bid to deter protesters from entering the city, nails have been installed along with barricades, aimed at puncturing the tires of vehicles carrying demonstrators, officials revealed on Sunday.

     

    Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora conducted an inspection of various borders between Haryana-Delhi and Uttar Pradesh-Delhi alongside police officials to assess the security arrangements. Over 5,000 security personnel have been deployed, and cranes and earthmovers with large containers have been stationed to block the roads effectively.

     

    Multiple security barricades have already been erected at the borders to impede the entry of farmers into the national capital. Nails have been strategically placed on the roads to thwart any attempt by protesters to breach the barricades using vehicles.

     

    Furthermore, several teams have been mobilized to maintain strict vigilance at bus stands, metro stations, railway stations, and roads to prevent farmers from entering the city through alternative modes of transportation.

     

    Farmers’ associations, primarily from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab, have announced plans for a protest on February 13, demanding legislation guaranteeing Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, a condition they had stipulated when withdrawing their agitation in 2021.

     

    Meanwhile, prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) have been imposed in the northeast district of Delhi to uphold law and order.

     

    The ‘Delhi Chalo March’, organized by around 200 farmers’ unions and a substantial number of farmers, is scheduled to converge on the national capital on February 13 from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab.

     

    The imposition of Section 144 of the CrPC aims to preempt any breach of law and order, as farmers are expected to stage sit-ins at the borders of Delhi until their demands are met.

     

    Given the past behavior of farmers during protests, characterized by defiance and determination, the authorities anticipate mobilization activities from various districts to Delhi, potentially involving tractors, trolleys, and arms. Therefore, the precautionary imposition of Section 144 is deemed necessary to safeguard lives and property in the area.

     

    The directive prohibits the gathering of the general public at all borders between Delhi and Uttar Pradesh and neighboring areas in the northeast district. It also bars the entry of vehicles carrying protesters from Uttar Pradesh, including tractors, trolleys, buses, trucks, and personal vehicles, into Delhi.

     

    The order instructs the northeast district police to take all necessary measures to prevent protesters from entering Delhi and prohibits individuals from bearing arms, including firearms, swords, tridents, spears, and rods.

     

    The police force is in close coordination with counterparts in Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh to ascertain the number of farmers’ organizations participating in the protest and anticipate the scale of the march. Stringent security plans, including multi-layered checkpoints and proper vehicle inspections, have been devised to maintain law and order and ensure public safety.

  • Delhi Police Gears Up for Farmers’ ‘Chalo Delhi’ Protest

    Delhi Police Gears Up for Farmers’ ‘Chalo Delhi’ Protest

    Amidst the looming threat of a re-run of the 2020 Farmers’ Protest, both the Haryana and Delhi police are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations for the farmers’ ‘Chalo Delhi’ protest scheduled for February 13. The Delhi Police, in particular, is on high alert, keen to avoid a recurrence of the unfortunate events of January 26, 2021, when clashes between protesting farmers and Delhi Police marred the national capital.

     

    The farmers participating in the protest march of the Chalo Delhi hail from various states including Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, and Karnataka. Their demands include the enactment of a law to guarantee Minimum Support Price (MSP) and pension benefits. In anticipation of the protest, the Delhi Police has issued a precautionary order under section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code to maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incidents.

     

    The Delhi Police’s preparations for the Farmers’ Protest are comprehensive and multifaceted:

    • Border Blocking: The Delhi Police, in collaboration with the Haryana Police, is blocking the borders of the national capital with Haryana, deploying barriers and cranes to prevent the entry of protesting farmers into Delhi.
    • Cement Barriers: Haryana authorities have also installed cement barriers to reinforce border security and prevent farmers from crossing into Delhi.
    • Drills and Preparations: Delhi Police officers are conducting drills and practicing firing tear gas shells in case protesters refuse to disperse. These drills aim to ensure swift and effective response in managing any potential unrest.
    • Estimation of Protesters: It is estimated that around 20,000 farmers, accompanied by 2,000 tractors, will attempt to enter Delhi. Delhi Police are also vigilant about the possibility of protesters using alternative modes of transportation to evade security measures.
    • VIP Security: Special attention is being paid to the security of VIPs including the Prime Minister, ministers, and BJP leaders, with police anticipating the possibility of protests outside their residences.
    • Social Media Monitoring: Delhi Police are closely monitoring social media platforms to preemptively identify and address any attempts to incite violence or organize disruptive activities.
    • Tractor Rehearsals: In collaboration with the Haryana and Punjab police, tractor rehearsals have been conducted to simulate the protest and practice response strategies.
    • Paramilitary Deployment: To bolster security measures, 50 paramilitary companies have been deployed to block the farmers’ entry into Delhi.

     

    In addition to these measures for Chalo Delhi movement, the Delhi Police has imposed various restrictions, including prohibiting gatherings at border areas between Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, restricting the entry of vehicles and protestors from Uttar Pradesh, and disallowing the carrying of arms or weapons by protestors. These restrictions will remain in place from February 11 to March 11, 2024.

     

    As tensions mount ahead of the Farmers’ Protest and the Chalo Delhi movement, the coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies aim to ensure the safety and security of citizens while upholding the democratic right to protest peacefully. However, the situation remains fluid, and both sides are bracing for potential challenges and contingencies.

  • Haryana Imposes Section 144 as Punjab Farmers March

    Haryana Imposes Section 144 as Punjab Farmers March

    Amidst escalating tensions surrounding the ‘Dilli Chalo’ call by Punjab farmers on February 13, the Haryana government, under Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, has taken robust measures to maintain law and order. These actions of imposing section 144 come as a response to the anticipated farmer march to Delhi and the subsequent potential disruption it could cause. Here are the key developments:

     

    Firstly, Section 144 has been enforced in Panchkula, Haryana, signaling a prohibition on various activities including processions, demonstrations, and the carrying of weapons. The restrictions extend to foot marches, tractor trolleys, and vehicles, as confirmed by Panchkula DCP Sumer Singh Pratap.

     

    Secondly, in a bid to control the flow of information and prevent potential unrest, the Haryana government has suspended mobile internet, bulk SMS, and dongle services in several districts until February 13. This suspension encompasses bulk SMS and dongle services, while mobile internet shutdowns affect seven districts including Ambala, Kurukshetra, and Hisar, as per an official notification.

     

    Furthermore, Haryana Police have taken proactive measures by blocking one side of the Patiala-Delhi national highway at the Data Singhwala-Khanauri border. Heavy police forces, including women personnel, have been deployed to deter Punjab farmers from proceeding towards the national capital.

     

    Senior police officials, including Hisar Range ADGP Matta Ravi Kiran, have personally visited the border areas to oversee enforcement efforts and ensure stringent measures are in place to prevent Punjab farmers from entering Delhi on February 13.

     

    Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) Lakhowal in Ludhiana has announced its decision not to participate in the ‘Delhi Chalo’ protest. However, they have vowed to oppose any mistreatment of farmers during the march, indicating a nuanced stance in the ongoing saga.

     

    In a significant development, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher disclosed that the Centre has extended an invitation for discussions on farmer demands on February 12. Union ministers Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda, and Nityanand Rai are slated to engage in talks with farmer representatives in Chandigarh, indicating a potential avenue for dialogue and resolution.

     

    The meeting, scheduled to take place a day before the proposed ‘Delhi Chalo’ march, underscores the urgency of addressing farmer grievances and finding common ground to alleviate tensions.

     

    In light of the heightened security measures and potential disruptions, passengers traveling from Delhi to Chandigarh have been advised to utilize alternative routes via Karnal, Indri/Pipli, or Yamunanagar. This advisory comes amidst road closures and barricades at the Shambhu border in Ambala, underscoring the logistical challenges posed by the anticipated farmer protest.

     

    Additionally, police forces have fortified the Shambhu border in Ambala with concrete blocks, barbed wire, sandbags, and barricades to prevent protesters from advancing towards the national capital, signaling a firm stance on maintaining law and order.

     

    Finally, farmer unions have issued a stern warning, asserting that significant action of imposition of section 144 will be taken in Haryana if the police resort to the use of force or any form of oppression against their counterparts. This sentiment reflects the underlying tensions and the potential for escalation in the days ahead.

     

    As the situation continues to evolve, stakeholders remain vigilant, navigating a delicate balance between upholding democratic rights and preserving public safety amidst the backdrop of ongoing farmer protests.

  • Section 144 Imposed in Karnataka’s Mandya District

    Section 144 Imposed in Karnataka’s Mandya District

    In response to a bandh called by pro-Kannada organizations, farmer unions, and several other groups regarding the contentious Cauvery water issue, the district administration of Mandya in Karnataka has imposed Section 144 on September 28. This decision was announced by Mandya DC Dr. Kumar, who stated, “In view of the bandh called by pro-Kannada organizations, farmer unions, and several other organizations tomorrow regarding Cauvery water issue, Section 144 has been imposed in Mandya district, and schools and colleges will remain closed tomorrow.”

     

    The call for the statewide bandh on September 29 was initially made following the successful Bengaluru shutdown organized by the ‘Karnataka Jala Samrakshana Samiti,’ an umbrella outfit of farmers’ associations and other organizations led by farmer leader Kuruburu Shanthakumar. This move gained momentum when ‘Kannada Okkuta,’ led by Kannada activist Vatal Nagaraj, also announced its support for the bandh.

     

    It is noteworthy that both groups are advocating for the same cause, which is related to the release of Cauvery river water to Tamil Nadu. However, Vatal Nagaraj clarified that the bandh he called for was not limited to Bengaluru but aimed to be an “Akhanda Karnataka bandh” (entire Karnataka bandh) on September 29, encompassing all districts. He emphasized that their fight was for the entire state of Karnataka, and Kannada Okkuta had previously organized more than 50 bandhs across the state.

     

    Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confirmed that the government would not curtail the “Bengaluru bandh” organized by some farmers’ organizations on September 28. He urged for the maintenance of peace during these protests and affirmed that his government would present its case more forcefully before the Supreme Court regarding the release of Cauvery River water to Tamil Nadu.

     

    Siddaramaiah further highlighted that Karnataka would challenge the directive of the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) to release water to Tamil Nadu in the Supreme Court. The ongoing protests in Karnataka stem from a September 21 Supreme Court order mandating Karnataka to release 5,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu daily.

     

    Officials in Karnataka have pointed out that the state is facing a severe water shortage due to a shortfall in cumulative inflows to its four reservoirs in the Cauvery basin, which hold only 53.04 percent of their capacity. The situation has been exacerbated by a deficient southwest monsoon and historically low rainfall in August and September, making it difficult for the state to meet even its drinking water requirements.

     

    The Cauvery water dispute remains a longstanding issue between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, and the recent developments reflect the ongoing tensions and protests surrounding this sensitive matter.

  • Section 144 Imposed in Bengaluru Ahead of “Bengaluru Bandh”

    Section 144 Imposed in Bengaluru Ahead of “Bengaluru Bandh”

    Bengaluru City Police has taken preventive measures by imposing Section 144 across the city in anticipation of a “Bengaluru Bandh.” The police have reiterated that as per instructions from the Supreme Court and Karnataka High Court, no protests, processions, or bandhs will be allowed during this period. Section 144 enforces restrictions on gatherings of more than 5 people citywide.

     

    In an official post on social media, Bengaluru City Police stated, “Today addressing press, @CPBlr has reiterated that no bundh/protests/processions are allowed as per Supreme Court/High Court instructions. Section 144 enforced citywide – gatherings of more than 5 people not permitted. Dial 112 for any help. Additional police will be deployed for maintaining law and order.”

     

    As a result of the “Bengaluru Bandh” called by various organizations, all schools and colleges in Bengaluru will remain closed on Tuesday. This decision was announced by Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Dayananda K.A.

     

    The bandh, scheduled to take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on September 26, is a response to the ongoing dispute over the release of Cauvery river water to Tamil Nadu from Karnataka. Various organizations, including farmers and pro-Kannada groups, are participating in the protest, and it is expected to disrupt normal life in the city.

     

    During the bandh, it is anticipated that government offices, banks, ATMs, public and private transport, shops, commercial establishments, restaurants, and hotels will remain closed. However, essential services such as hospitals, nursing homes, medical shops, emergency services, petrol pumps, water supply, electricity, and sanitation services are expected to continue operating.

     

    To maintain law and order during the bandh and prevent any untoward incidents, a heavy police deployment has been planned in the city. Section 144, which prohibits the assembly of more than five people, will be strictly enforced.

     

    The bandh comes in the backdrop of the long-standing Cauvery river water-sharing dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. In response to the situation, Janata Dal-Secular (JDS) MP HD Deve Gowda has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting a team of experts to study the water and standing crop situation in Karnataka. He emphasized the need for a review petition by the Jal Shakti department and the dispatch of a committee of experts to assess the situation in the state.

     

    As the city prepares for the bandh and the water-sharing dispute persists, political leaders and authorities continue to address the complex issue, seeking a resolution that balances the interests of both states involved.

  • Alwar: Impose Section 144 After Communal Clashes

    Alwar: Impose Section 144 After Communal Clashes

    The district administrations of Alwar and Bharatpur in Rajasthan have decided to impose Section 144, which prohibits gatherings of four or more people, following reports of violence that erupted after recent communal clashes in Haryana’s Nuh district.

     

    To maintain law and order and prevent any escalation of tensions, Alwar district authorities announced the imposition of Section 144 in ten areas of the district until August 10. Similarly, the Bharatpur district officials imposed restrictions in two of its tehsils until further orders. As a precautionary measure, internet services were also suspended in the affected areas.

     

    On Tuesday, a group of youths allegedly ransacked several roadside shops on a highway in Rajasthan’s Alwar district. The police suspect that this incident could be linked to the communal tension prevailing in neighboring Nuh district of Haryana. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but some suspects have been detained for further investigation.

     

    As a response to the situation, mobile internet services were suspended in four tehsils of Bharatpur district, which share borders with Nuh district, to prevent the spread of misinformation and to control the situation effectively.

     

    A police official reported that the youths involved in the ransacking were heard shouting religious slogans, and the targeted shops belonged to the minority community. The incident is believed to have been inspired by the recent violence in Haryana’s Nuh district.

     

    In light of the escalating tensions, Haryana Chief Minister ML Khattar termed the violence in Nuh as “tragic” and urged the public to maintain peace and harmony. He emphasized that allowing tension to escalate could have a detrimental effect on the spirit of brotherhood.

     

    In response to the situation, the Haryana government has deployed 20 companies of central security forces in the state, with 14 stationed in Nuh, along with additional personnel in other districts. The government is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of the people and prevent further violence.

     

    As the situation remains sensitive, the district administrations in Rajasthan and neighboring states are closely monitoring developments and taking necessary precautions to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.

  • Communal Clashes Escalate in Haryana: Violence Erupts

    Communal Clashes Escalate in Haryana: Violence Erupts

    Communal clashes that initially erupted in Haryana’s Nuh district have now escalated, spreading to Gurugram and Badshahpur, leading to fresh waves of violence and property destruction. The situation has become increasingly tense, with incidents of vandalism and arson taking place.

     

    On Tuesday, a group of around 200 men, riding motorbikes and SUVs, targeted the main market of Badshahpur, vandalizing 14 shops. Similarly, in Gurugram’s Sector 66, a mob set ablaze 7 stores, further aggravating the already volatile situation.

     

    The mob specifically targeted biryani shops and food stalls in Badshahpur, causing significant damage and disruption. This violent spree follows the previous day’s attack on a mosque in Gurugram’s Sector 57, during which the naib imam was killed, and three others were injured.

     

    In response to the escalating violence, authorities have taken swift action to restore law and order. Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar imposed Section 144 CrPC in both Gurugram and Nuh. This legal provision grants the magistrate the authority to restrict gatherings of four or more people in specific areas, with the aim of preventing further unrest.

     

    The violence originally erupted during the ‘Brij Mandal Jalabhishek Yatra,’ an event organized by Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal in Nuh district. So far, the death toll from the clashes has reached 5, including two personnel of Haryana home guard.

     

    Chief Minister Khattar has expressed concerns about the possibility of a “big conspiracy” behind the clashes, leading to the imposition of Section 144 as a precautionary measure. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also expressed distress over the communal violence and urged for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing tensions.

     

    Amidst the escalating situation of communal clashes, authorities have advised residents to stay indoors and venture outside only for essential tasks. They have also emphasized the importance of avoiding rumors that could further inflame the situation.

     

    The authorities are actively investigating the root cause of the clashes and making efforts to address the underlying issues that have led to the outbreak of violence. As the region remains on high alert, the focus is on finding a peaceful resolution and restoring harmony in the affected areas.