Farmers Protest: On January 26, 2021, the planned tractor rally by protesting farmers took an unexpected turn, catching Delhi Police off guard. Deviating from the permitted route, the rally breached barricades and entered the heart of Delhi, with some even reaching the iconic Red Fort. Fast forward to the present, as the protests reignite in northern India, demanding a law guaranteeing Minimum Support Price (MSP), stringent security measures have been implemented, showcasing innovative tactics and advanced equipment.
Unconventional Strategies Unveiled by Delhi Police
Facing a redux of the 2020–21 protests, Delhi Police has unveiled unconventional strategies to thwart the farmers’ entry into the city. Beyond the conventional deployment of rapid action forces and officers in riot gear at border points, the security apparatus has been augmented with unique measures.
Impenetrable Barriers and Fenced Entry Points
All entry points leading to Delhi from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh have been fortified with multiple layers of barricades, concrete blocks, and containers. This time, the containers are filled with soil and bricks, rendering them immovable. The innovative use of these barriers aims to deter any attempts to breach the established security perimeters. In addition, makeshift jails have been strategically set up at specific locations to contain potential escalations.
Transformed Border Zones: Singhu as a Conflict Zone
The Singhu border, a focal point of the 2020-21 protests, now resembles a conflict zone. Barbed wire, jersey barriers, and iron nails firmly embedded in the ground have transformed this area to discourage any vehicular or tractor movements. The ground-level deterrents, along with heightened surveillance, illustrate the comprehensive approach adopted by law enforcement to maintain control and prevent unauthorized entry.
As farmers’ protests persist, Delhi Police’s innovative tactics and fortified security measures underscore the dynamic challenges of maintaining public order while respecting the right to peaceful protest.
