Farmers Call For Four-Hour Nationwide ‘Rail Roko’ Protest; Security Increased Across Punjab, Haryana, UP, West Bengal

Farm unions have called for a four-hour 'rail roko' demonstration across the country today, reports HT.

Samyukta Kisan Morcha, the umbrella body of 40 farm unions, has called for a peaceful protest between 12 noon and 4 pm.

“It'll begin at 12 pm and go on till 3-4 pm. Trains aren't plying anyway. It'll be done peacefully. We'll provide water, milk, lassi & fruits to people who will be found stranded. We will tell them our issues,” said Rakesh Tikait, Bharatiya Kisan Union spokesperson.

In response, Indian Railways has stepped up the security to maintain law and order. Reportedly, additional forces have been deployed across Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has deployed 20 additional companies across the four states.

“I appeal to everyone to maintain peace. We will be liaisoning with district administrations and will have a control room in place," director general, Railway Protection Force, Arun Kumar was quoted as saying by PTI.

“We have a four-hour window and we want it (rail roko) to get over peacefully," Kumar added.