India: Police clash with protesting farmers in Singhu amid march on Delhi November 27 /update 2

Event

Police clashed with protesters in the vicinity of Singhu, on the border between Delhi and Haryana state, on Friday, November 27, as farmers' groups continue their march on the capital to oppose recently government agricultural legislation. Security forces fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators approaching the state border crossing after they denied them entry on the basis of restrictions introduced due to the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Barbed wire and barricades have been erected at the state border crossing. One farmers' group, Punjab Farmers, stated that they will attempt to enter Delhi through the Lalru, Moonak-Tohana, Patiala-Pehowa, Patran-Khanauri, Rati-Fatehabad, and Talwandi-Sirsa crossings despite the restrictions. Reports indicate that clashes have occurred at other border crossings where police have deployed tear gas and water cannon to disperse crowds. Authorities in Haryana have already imposed measures that prohibit gatherings in areas across the state.

Police arrested over 100 farmers in New Delhi after they attempted to stage a demonstration in the city on Thursday, November 26. The arrests coincide with calls by the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC) farmers' organization for a demonstration in New Delhi on Thursday, through Friday, at Jantar Mantar and the residences of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders and corporate businesses.

A heightened security presence and associated disruptions are likely in the vicinity of rallies taking place. Further unrest and clashes between protesters and security personnel cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Those in the area are advised to avoid the vicinity of the demonstration as a precaution, monitor developments, anticipate significant transportation and business disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.