Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh tweeted on Tuesday to criticise those behind the violence that consumed parts of Delhi on Republic Day.
“Shocking scenes in Delhi. The violence by some elements is unacceptable. It’ll negate goodwill generated by peacefully protesting farmers. Kisan leaders have disassociated themselves and suspended the tractor rally. I urge all genuine farmers to vacate Delhi and return to the borders,” the CM tweeted.
As the nation celebrated Republic Day in the morning, farmers protesting outside Delhi’s borders for nearly two months knocked down police barricades long before the time that had been agreed upon for their tractor rally in the capital. The farmers entered Delhi and managed to reach the ITO intersection, which is almost the heart of Delhi. There were clashes between farmers and cops at the spot, right outside the Delhi Police headquarters.
The situation rapidly escalated as farmers drove their tractors into the iconic Red Fort. Protesting farmers climbed the ramparts and tried to put up yellow flags of Sikh religious significance.
The farmers have blamed “anti-social elements” for the violence and the Samyukt Kisan Morcha, a federation of 40 farmer unions, has dissociated itself from the chaos and appealed for calm.
“We appeal strongly to everyone to stick to the route and norms of the Parade, and not indulge in any violent action or anything that taints national symbols and dignity. We appeal to everyone to desist from any such acts,” a statement from the organisation said.