Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann reiterated on Wednesday the commitment to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic demise of 24-year-old farmer Shubh Karan Singh, who suffered fatal injuries during a clash with Haryana Police at the Khanauri border. Mann affirmed his government's unwavering support for the farmers, asserting that even in the face of purported threats of invoking President's Rule in Punjab, they will steadfastly stand by the farming community. In response to the unfortunate incident, the protesters announced a temporary suspension of the 'Delhi Chalo' march for two days to allow leaders to deliberate on the future course of action.
The resumption of the farmers' protest from the Punjab-Haryana border on Wednesday was met with resistance from Haryana security forces, culminating in the tragic loss of one young farmer's life.
Here are the latest updates on the situation:
1. The protest escalated into violence at the Shambhu and Khanauri border, resulting in injuries to several farmers and law enforcement officers. Since commencing their 'Chalo Delhi' march on February 13, farmers have been encamped at the borders of Punjab following clashes with Haryana Police. In light of the impasse in talks with the central authorities, the decision was made to resume the march on Wednesday.
2. Haryana Police deployed tear gas shells after farmers declared their intention to breach the barricades erected to prevent their entry into the state.
3. Reports indicate that farmers resorted to stone pelting and even deployed stubble mixed with chili powder during the confrontation, leading to injuries among law enforcement personnel.
4. The deceased farmer, Shubh Karan Singh, hailed from Bathinda and was the son of Charanjit Singh. Despite being rushed to the hospital with a severe head injury, he tragically succumbed to his wounds. While Haryana Police denied any confirmation of the death or firing on protesters, farmers alleged the use of rubber bullets in addition to tear gas.
5. The incident reignited tensions between Punjab and Haryana, with Bhagwant Mann questioning the rationale behind Haryana's actions within Punjab's territory.
6. Rahul Gandhi, a prominent figure in the Congress, expressed condolences over Shubh Karan Singh's demise, criticizing the BJP and predicting that history would one day demand answers about the "killing of farmers."
7. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher announced that a decision on the next steps would be made on Friday evening, signaling a temporary halt to the march.
8. Farmers mobilized heavy machinery such as earth movers, excavators, and tractors at the border points, prepared to dismantle police defenses. However, the unfortunate loss of life prompted a temporary cessation of the march.
9. The Bharatiya Kisan Union (Charuni) announced plans to stage roadblocks across Haryana districts for two hours on Thursday, protesting against the death of the young farmer.
10. In previous discussions, the central team proposed procuring five crops—moong dal, urad dal, tur dal, maize, and cotton—at MSP for five years through central agencies, a proposal rejected by farmers.
