The Delhi Chalo march called by farmer leaders has been put on hold for two days after violent clashes left one protester dead and several police officers injured at the Punjab-Haryana border.21-year-old Subhkaran Singh succumbed to a head injury sustained during the clashes at Khanauri. Singh was a small landowner who supported his family, including his mentally ill father. His death has inflamed tensions as opposition leaders criticise the governments handling of the ongoing farmer protests.Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has promised strong action against those responsible. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal has questioned whether this is what independence was fought for. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused PM Modis arrogance of costing farmers lives once again.The farmers body Samyukt Kisan Morcha has called the government solely responsible and will meet to discuss further action. They have condemned Singhs death.According to the Haryana Police, protesters in Khanauri set fire to chaff laced with chilli powder and attacked security forces with stones and sharp weapons. 12 officers were seriously injured and the toxic smoke caused breathing issues and poor visibility. The police appealed for protesters to refrain from such dangerous activities.As tensions escalated, tear gas was used to disperse protesters at Khanauri and Shambhu. A sub-inspector at Tohana passed away after his health worsened. 3 officers have now died during the ongoing agitation according to Haryana Police.Mobile internet and SMS services remain suspended in 7 Haryana districts including Ambala and Jind until 23rd Feb to prevent rumour-mongering that could incite violence. Road blockades since 13th Feb have led to transport challenges, with train tickets fully booked and flight fares soaring.To protest Singhs death, Bharatiya Kisan Union members will block Haryana roads for 2 hours on Thursday. They have scrapped effigy-burning plans to avoid clashes. Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda appealed for a peaceful solution benefiting all farmers nationwide. Talks remain on the table as the standoff continues.
