Haryana Suspends Internet in Ambala Villages Amid Farmers’ ‘Dilli Chalo’ Protest

Chandigarh/Ambala : The Haryana government has suspended mobile internet, bulk SMS services, and dongle-based internet in 12 villages of Ambala district from December 14 to 17, citing the need to maintain peace and public order amid the ongoing farmers’ protest at the Shambhu border.

This move comes as a group of 101 farmers is set to make a third attempt to march towards Delhi, pressing for their demands, including a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and loan waivers. The protests, which have been ongoing for 10 months, have intensified, with farmers accusing government agencies of attempting to sabotage their peaceful movement.

Kisan Mazdoor Morcha leader Sarwan Singh Pandher stated that the ‘Marjeevda Jatha,’ led by farmer leaders Jaswinder Singh Longowal and Malkit Singh Gulamiwala, will spearhead the march. Protestors have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points since February 13, after being stopped during their previous attempts to proceed to Delhi.

Internet Suspension:
As per an order issued by Haryana’s Additional Chief Secretary (Home), the internet suspension covers villages including Dangdehri, Lohgarh, Manakpur, and Sultanpur, among others. The suspension excludes voice calls and aims to prevent any disturbance in the region during the protests.

Health Concerns for Farmer Leader:
Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a fast-unto-death for over 18 days at the Khanauri border, is reportedly in critical condition, with unstable blood pressure and significant weight loss. On Friday, the Supreme Court directed the Punjab and Central governments to provide medical assistance to Dallewal, emphasizing that his life is more important than the agitation.

Heightened Security:
Security along the interstate border at the Ghaggar rivulet has been tightened, with central paramilitary forces and Haryana police deployed in anticipation of the farmers’ march. Despite clashes during earlier attempts, the protesting farmers remain determined to press their demands and seek dialogue with the Centre.

The Supreme Court has also suggested adopting Gandhian methods of protest to ensure a peaceful resolution.