In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing farmers agitation, tractor-trolleys laden with determination and resolve have converged at the Punjab-Haryana borders, poised to break through barriers erected by the Haryana Police at Shambhu and Khanauri. Armed not with weapons but with unwavering determination, these farmers are preparing for a showdown as they gear up for the Dilli Chalo protest march scheduled for Wednesday at 11 am.   Fueling their determination are the recent developments in negotiations with the Central Government, which have failed to address the core demands of the farmers—legal guarantee on the minimum support price (MSP). Despite the Governments offer to provide MSP for select crops, including cotton and pulses, farmer leaders have resolutely rejected these proposals, asserting that they fall short of ensuring a fair deal for all agricultural produce.   We want more than just piecemeal solutions. We demand a legal guarantee of MSP for all crops, a fundamental right that safeguards the livelihoods of millions of farmers across the country, said farmer leader Jagjeet Singh Dallewal, who is leading the current protest.   Dallewal said that discussions were held with both experts and farmers to assess the viability of the governments proposal. However, upon careful consideration, it was concluded that the offer did not align with the farmers best interests, he said. Notably, the primary demand for a legal MSP guarantee remains paramount, with estimated costs of approximately Rs 1.75 lakh crore, as per estimates by the farmers.   The preparations for the protest march resemble a battle formation, with farmers deploying heavy machinery such as JCBs and hydraulic cranes to dismantle barricades and clear the path to the national capital. Specially-designed bulletproof Poclain machines stand as a symbol of defiance, shielding protesters from potential harm (read tear-gas shells) as they confront the might of the state.   Kisan Mazdoor Morchas (KMM) coordinator Sarwan Singh Pandher emphasized the commitment to a peaceful protest, but warned against any attempts by authorities to suppress their legitimate demands. We march with peace in our hearts, but with resilience in our spirits. Any use of force against us will only strengthen our resolve, he asserted.   The sheer magnitude of the mobilization is staggering, with over 2,000 tractor-trolleys converging at strategic points along the border. Shambhu and Khanauri have become rallying points for farmers from Punjab, symbolizing the unity and determination of the agricultural community in their struggle against injustice.   According to the latest affidavit filed by Punjabs Special Director General of Police, Law and Order, Arpit Shukla in the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Tuesday, the situation at the Shambhu Border in Patiala district remains tense but peaceful, with a significant gathering of protesters.   As of February 19 (that is Monday), the affidavit reported that during the daytime, approximately 13,000 to 13,500 individuals are present at the Shambhu Border, while during the night, the number slightly decreases to around 11,000 to 11,500. The gathering included a variety of vehicles, with 1,155 tractors, 1,363 trolleys, 127 cars or SUVs, 10 mini-buses, 80 water tanks, and 44 canters (big or small), along with around 20 to 25 bikes.   Similarly, at the Khanauri border in Sangrur district, the affidavit indicated a significant presence of protesters. During the daytime, approximately 4,500 to 4,600 individuals were gathered at the Khanauri border, with the number reducing to around 3,700 to 3,900 during the night. The gathering included around 500 to 550 tractors or trolleys, 24 to 25 cars or SUVs, 20 to 22 water tanks, three canters (trucks), and approximately 40 to 45 bikes.   Despite the large numbers and the presence of various types of vehicles, the affidavit highlighted that the present situation at both Shambhu and Khanauri borders remained peaceful. Notably, Haryana Police has erected strong barricades at both the borders to maintain law and order and ensure public safety.   As the tension mounts, farmers have also formed a legal team to provide support and guidance amidst the legal complexities that may arise. Led by advocate Akhil Chaudhary, this team stands ready to defend the rights of protesters and ensure that justice prevails in the face of adversity.   Punjab prohibits movement of JCBs, heavy equipment on Haryanas request   In response to Haryanas concerns over potential disruptions caused by the use of heavy earthmoving machinery, Punjab has taken a decisive step by prohibiting the movement of JCBs and other heavy equipment. The move comes amidst escalating tensions and preparations for the farmers protest march towards Delhi.   Haryana Police, on February 14, had raised alarms over the possibility of protesters utilizing heavy machinery, like JCBs, to breach barricades at the Shambhu border in Ambala and the Data Singh border in Jind. In light of these warnings, Punjabs Special Director General of Police (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla issued directives to halt the movement of such equipment towards Patiala and Sangrur districts.   The directive, outlined in an affidavit filed in the High Court on Tuesday, not only prohibits the use of JCBs but also instructs the senior police officials in various districts to establish round-the-clock checkpoints to monitor and restrict the movement of such machinery.   As per the affidavit, the SSPs of several districts, including Barnala, Malerkotla, SAS Nagar, Bathinda, and Mansa, were instructed to set up round-the-clock police check-posts on roads leading to these districts to prevent any unauthorized movement of such machinery.

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