Haryana Police steps-up security ahead of 'Chakka Jam' on Saturday
What's the story
Haryana Police has stepped up security measures in view of the protesting farmer unions' call for a countrywide Chakka Jam on Saturday, an official said. "Senior police officers have been asked to personally supervise security and traffic arrangements at vital junctions and roads while District Police chiefs have been directed to ensure deployment of adequate personnel," according to an official communication issued to them.
Official statement
Anti-social elements, aggressive youth can create pandemonium
The communication dated February 4, said, "In view of the January 26 incidents in Delhi, some anti-social elements and aggressive youth creating law and order problems cannot be ruled out." "It is assessed that as part of the protest program on February 6, protesting farmers/unions may attempt road blockades of important national highways, state highways, and interior roads," it said.
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Police to liaise with local leaders to avoid untoward incidents
The communication stated, "The Police Commissioners and District Police chiefs have been asked to make all efforts to liaise with local leaders of farmer organizations to ensure peaceful conduct of their proposed program."
Chakka Jam
Farmer unions to protest against internet ban and other issues
To recall, farmer unions on Monday announced that they would hold a countrywide Chakka Jam on February 6 and block national and state highways for three hours to protest against the internet ban in areas near agitation sites, harassment by authorities, and other issues. Meanwhile, Haryana Home and Health Minister Anil Vij has appealed to the farmer leaders to call off the Chakka Jam.
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Biggest problems are solved through dialogue: Vij
Vij said, "Biggest problems in the world and even international issues are solved through dialogue. The government is always ready for talks and the Prime Minister has said the doors for talks are open. So, they should come forward."
Vij's statement
Everyone has the right to protest, but shouldn't cause inconvenience
He also said that in a democracy everyone has the right to protest and hold dharnas, but while exercising that right, one should also keep in mind that they should not violate the rights of others and common people should not be inconvenienced. "So, it is my appeal to farmer leaders that they should call off their Chakka Jam program," said Vij.
Background
Why are the farmers protesting?
Thousands of farmers have been protesting since late November at Delhi's borders demanding a rollback of the three farm laws. They have expressed apprehension that these laws would dismantle the minimum support price system, leaving them at the mercy of big corporations. However, the government has maintained that the new laws will bring better opportunities to farmers and help introduce new technologies in agriculture.