Hundreds of farmers from Noida and Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh abandoned their planned protest march to Parliament on Thursday evening following assurances from police officials regarding the formation of a committee to address their grievances.
The farmers protest, which aimed to demand increased compensation and developed plots in exchange for land acquired by local development authorities two decades ago, commenced from Mahamaya flyover around noon, resulting in traffic congestion across Noida, Greater Noida, and the national capital.
Led by organizations such as the Bhartiya Kisan Parishad (BKP), All India Kisan Sabha, and Jai Jawan Jai Kisan Morcha, the agitation targeted the development authorities in Noida and Greater Noida.
As reported by sources, BKP leader Sukhbir Yadav ‘Khalifa’ stated that the Noida Police Commissioner assured them of the formation of a high-powered committee to address their demands within eight days. However, he asserted that if their demands continue to be overlooked, they will persist with their fight and march towards Delhi.
Despite the protest being called off, police personnel will remain stationed at the Chilla border to manage any potential law and order issues, confirmed officers from Delhi and Noida.
Preemptive measures were taken by the authorities, with the Gautam Buddha Nagar police implementing prohibitory measures under CrPC Section 144 and the Delhi Police deploying heavy-duty machinery and personnel, including bulldozers, riot control vehicles, and water cannons.
AIKS president Jagbir Numberdar disclosed that leaders of various farmers’ unions were placed under house arrest on Wednesday, and some were detained by the U.P. Police. However, they were released later in the evening.
The U.P. police issued a traffic advisory in anticipation of the protest, warning commuters about road diversions in the twin cities. Heavy traffic jams were reported on several routes, including the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway, DND loop, and various junctions within Noida and Greater Noida, between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m.
