The Impressive TimesNew Delhi : The Punjab Government today informed the Supreme Court that it has successfully cleared the protesting farmers from the Shambhu and Khanauri borders near Haryana, ensuring the free movement of traffic on the National Highway. Advocate General of Punjab Gurminder Singh conveyed this update to a bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice NK Singh. He further stated that Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a veteran leader of the protest, had ended his hunger strike earlier today.
The Supreme Court, while taking note of the developments, declined to entertain a contempt petition filed against Punjab authorities, which alleged that clearing the protest sites violated a status quo order issued by the court last year. The bench emphasized that the matter should be resolved through dialogue and administrative measures rather than legal confrontations. It also underscored the need for a balanced approach that ensures the right to protest while minimizing public inconvenience.
Additionally, the Court directed the High-Powered Committee, constituted to mediate negotiations between the protesting farmers and government representatives, to submit its supplementary report. The committee has been actively engaged in discussions to address the grievances of the farmers while balancing public interest and maintaining law and order. The supplementary report is expected to provide updates on the progress of negotiations and any resolutions reached so far.
The protests at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders had been ongoing for several months, causing disruptions to traffic and raising concerns over prolonged road blockades. Farmers have been demanding legal guarantees on minimum support prices (MSP) and other agricultural reforms. Despite multiple rounds of talks, the resolution process has been slow, leading to escalated tensions and prolonged sit-ins at border areas.
The clearance of these protest sites marks a significant development in the ongoing discussions between farmer unions and government authorities. The Punjab Government’s role in facilitating the movement of vehicles on the National Highway has been met with both support and criticism, as some farmer groups view it as an attempt to suppress their demands. However, officials maintain that the decision was taken in the interest of public convenience and order.
As legal proceedings continue, stakeholders are expected to engage further in negotiations to find a resolution that accommodates the concerns of all parties involved. The Supreme Court’s directives indicate a preference for structured dialogue over prolonged judicial battles, keeping in mind the socio-economic impact of the protests and their resolution.
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