In anticipation of renewed agitation among farmers and their 'Delhi Chalo' march demanding a minimum support price for crops, the perimeters of Delhi have been bolstered with extensive security measures. Now, a week into the ongoing protest, a delegation of senior Delhi Police officials, including prominent IPS officers, undertook a visit to the Shambhu border, situated between Punjab and Haryana, where a significant contingent of protesting farmers has established campgrounds. The primary objective of this visit was to gain firsthand insights into the prevailing circumstances, particularly focusing on evaluating the efficacy of the Haryana Police's tactics in managing the farmers' advancement towards Delhi.
Sources indicate that the visit was multifaceted in its aims, encompassing several key objectives:
1. To assess the effectiveness of the Haryana Police's coordination with the Rapid Action Force (RAF) during the initial phase of the protest, notably on the first day when the farmers' march was successfully intercepted.
2. To evaluate the security infrastructure and provisions implemented by the Haryana Police, encompassing equipment, resources, and logistical arrangements.
3. To gather intelligence inputs regarding the current disposition and intentions of the protesting farmers, providing crucial insights for future decision-making and operational planning.
The Shambhu border has witnessed intermittent clashes and confrontations, marked by attempts from the farmers to breach the formidable security barricades erected by the Haryana Police. These efforts, often employing tractors and rudimentary tools, have resulted in skirmishes and detentions by law enforcement authorities. In response, security forces have resorted to measures such as firing tear gas and utilizing drones for surveillance and tactical interventions, aimed at containing the situation and averting further escalation.
Presently, while the atmosphere at the Shambhu border appears relatively subdued, stringent security protocols persist to uphold order and deter any potential unrest.
Simultaneously, Delhi itself has been transformed into a fortified stronghold, evident through extensive security fortifications at key entry points such as the Ghazipur, Singhu, and Tikri borders. These measures, characterized by multi-layered barricades, aim to prevent the ingress of protesting farmers into the city. Additionally, the imposition of Section 144, prohibiting large gatherings and the entry of tractor trolleys, underscores the proactive measures undertaken by the Delhi Police to preempt any potential disruptions.
To ensure the maintenance of peace and order, over 2,000 security personnel drawn from various units including the CAPF and Crime Branch are deployed at these borders. Furthermore, rigorous training exercises, including drills and mock scenarios conducted in anti-riot gear, underscore the preparedness of law enforcement agencies to handle any exigencies.
In anticipation of potential contingencies, the Delhi Police has procured a substantial quantity of tear gas shells from the Border Security Force's Tear Smoke unit, further bolstering their arsenal. Vigilant monitoring and proactive measures by police and paramilitary forces underscore their commitment to forestall any breach of law and order, underscoring the paramount importance accorded to public safety and security amidst the ongoing protests.
