There is growing tension in Punjab as farmer unions plan to protest at Shambhu, even though police have sealed the borders and deployed heavy security.
Large groups of farmers started gathering in places like Moga and Jagraon. They are preparing to march, even though the government has not allowed any protest.
The protest is being led by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. It comes after a police action on March 19, when several farmer leaders were arrested following a meeting with Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in Chandigarh.
Farmers say some of their belongings went missing during that police action and claim these items were later found with people connected to AAP leaders and police officers. Now, they are demanding compensation for those items.
To stop the protest, police are checking vehicles and only allowing those going to Delhi or Haryana. Some heavy vehicles are being sent through other routes.
From Sirhind to Shambhu, there is a heavy police presence. In Rajpura, Patiala police have placed senior officers and many personnel to stop farmers from reaching Shambhu.
A senior police officer said the security is to avoid trouble and keep people safe.
However, a farm leader said farmers will use all their strength to reach the protest spot.
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