Farmers' Agitation: Tensions Rise as Centre-Kisan Meeting in Chandigarh

The third day of the farmers' agitation in Punjab saw continued tensions as farmers from Punjab and Haryana remained entrenched at the Shambhu border amid efforts to march towards Delhi. The Haryana Police, assisted by paramilitary forces, maintained a three-day blockade using seven layers of barricades and tear gas shells. 

In solidarity with the farmers, Punjab's farmer organisations supported their cause by making all toll plazas in the state toll-free from 11 am to 1 pm. Additionally, the Indian Farmers Union (Ugrahan) halted trains in six districts from noon to 4 pm as part of their protest. Further intensifying the movement, Gurunam Chaduni, president of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Chaduni), announced toll waivers for three hours in Haryana on February 16, extending support to the farmers' cause. 

Simultaneously, the Central government ordered internet shutdowns in parts of Punjab, including Patiala, Sangrur, and Fatehgarh Sahib districts, where farmers had congregated before heading to Delhi. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann expressed displeasure over the shutdown and wrote to the Centre urging the restoration of internet services. 

In a press conference held in Chandigarh, Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar questioned the methods of the farmers' agitation, likening their movement to an offensive military operation due to their use of tractor-trolleys and carrying of ration supplies. He raised concerns about the disruption caused by the protests, echoing sentiments shared by authorities in the wake of the ongoing agitation. 

The standoff between the farmers and the government continues as tensions remain high on both sides. The farmers, demanding the repeal of the contentious farm laws and assurances on minimum support prices for crops, remain resolute in their determination to march to Delhi. Meanwhile, the government faces pressure to find a resolution to the crisis and alleviate the concerns of the protesting farmers. 

As the agitation enters its third day with no signs of abating, the situation remains fluid, with both sides closely monitoring developments and engaging in dialogues to find a way forward amidst the growing tensions.