NEW DELHI: Farmers from multiple organizations have united to march toward Delhi, demanding fair compensation for acquired land and benefits under new agricultural laws. The protest has caused heightened security and widespread traffic diversions across Delhi-NCR. On December 2, 2024, several farmer groups came together to protest against government policies that they claim are detrimental to their livelihoods. Prominent organizations leading the charge include Bharatiya Kisan Parishad (BKP), Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), Kisan Mazdoor Mahasangh (KMM), All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS).
Farmers are demanding a 64.7% increase in compensation and allocation of 10% kisan abadi (compensatory) plots for acquired land, a right upheld by the Supreme Court in 2015. These demands stem from land acquired by authorities like Noida Authority, GNIDA, and YEIDA for urbanization projects.
“We’ve waited for years, and despite court rulings in our favor, the government hasn’t delivered,” said Rupesh Verma, district president of All India Kisan Sabha while talking to The New Indian.
READ ALSO: Farmers’ protest intensifies: March to Delhi sparks security measures and traffic diversions
Farmers, along with their wives and children, highlight the protest’s human cost as they wait for resolution. Police halt the march inside Rashtriya Dalit Smarak (Ambedkar Park) and assure them of discussions to address their grievances.
The march commenced from the YEIDA office in Greater Noida, with farmers traveling on around 200 tractors. Sunil Pradhan, spokesperson for the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Tikait), said, “We are ready for a prolonged protest. We have brought tents, cooking supplies, and essentials to stay until our demands are met.”
Authorities have implemented extensive security measures at key points, including Kalindi Kunj, Chilla Gate, and DND Flyway. Lakhan Singh Yadav, DCP (Traffic), confirmed, “All commercial vehicles, including trucks and tractors, are banned on these routes today and redirected to alternate routes.”
READ ALSO: India-US geospatial partnership aims for $10 billion trade milestone by 2030
Traffic diversions include:
- Kalindi Kunj: Vehicles rerouted via Sector 37 and Mahamaya Flyover.
- Chilla Border: Traffic redirected to Sector 14A Flyover and Sector 15.
- DND Flyway: Vehicles diverted to the U-turn at Film City Flyover.
- Yamuna Expressway: Traffic rerouted through Jewar Toll toward Khurja.
A traffic advisory urged commuters to use Metro services or alternative routes to avoid delays. This united protest highlights the farmers’ collective frustration and resolve, as the nation watches for developments from the promised discussions.