Punjab Police Clears Shambhu and Khanauri Borders After 13-Month Farmer Protest

In a significant development, Punjab Police have cleared the Shambhu and Khanauri borders, which had been occupied by protesting farmers for over 13 months. The operation involved dismantling tents and makeshift structures using bulldozers and detaining over 700 farmers, including prominent leaders Sarwan Singh Pandher and Jagjit Singh Dallewal.

Coordinated Efforts to Restore Traffic Flow

The clearance operation was a coordinated effort between Punjab and Haryana authorities to restore normal traffic flow between the two states. Following the removal of protest sites, Haryana Police commenced the process of removing concrete barricades on their side of the border to facilitate vehicular movement.

Background of the Protests

Farmers had been protesting at these border points since February 13, 2024, demanding various agricultural reforms and policies favorable to their interests. The prolonged occupation had led to significant disruptions in transportation and commerce between Punjab and Haryana.

Current Situation and Security Measures

As of March 20, 2025, heavy police deployment remains at the cleared sites to prevent any attempts to re-occupy the areas. Internet services have been suspended in the surrounding districts of Sangrur and Patiala to maintain law and order. Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who was on a hunger strike, has been hospitalized in Jalandhar for medical attention.

Political Reactions and Future Implications

The sudden action by the Punjab government has elicited mixed reactions from various political entities. Opposition parties have criticized the timing and manner of the crackdown, suggesting that it undermines ongoing dialogues between the government and farmer organizations. The clearance of these protest sites marks a pivotal moment in the farmer agitation, potentially influencing future strategies of both the government and the protesting bodies.

The removal of the 13-month-long farmer protest sites at Shambhu and Khanauri borders signifies a critical juncture in the ongoing discourse surrounding agricultural reforms in India. While the immediate focus remains on restoring normalcy and ensuring public safety, the underlying issues prompting the protests continue to require attention and resolution through constructive dialogue.

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