Farmers’ Tractor Rally: Over 80 cops hurt, 300 barricades broken, say Delhi Police

New Delhi witnessed violent scenes on Republic Day as farmers participating in a tractor rally clashed with the police, broke barricades and stormed the Red Fort, and the police used tear gas and lathi charge. The Delhi Police on Tuesday alleged that protesting farmers violated the conditions pre-agreed for their tractor parade and indulge in violence and vandalism, leaving 83 of its personnel injured.

Scenes of chaos and mayhem unfolded at Delhi borders as groups of farmers broke barricades and police check posts and entered the national capital before permitted timings. Police used tear gas at Delhi's Mukarba Chowk, Nangloi to bring the groups under control. Clashes were also reported at ITO, Akshardham as well.

“Most of incidents were reported from Mukarba Chowk, Gazipur, A-Point ITO, Seemapuri, Nangloi T-Point, Tikri Border & Red Fort. 86 policemen have reported injured & several public & private properties have been damaged in this act of vandalism by the rioting mob,” Delhi Police said in an official statement.

“Delhi Police are keeping a close watch on the situation and also registering cases of violation of lawful directions, rioting, damage to public property & assault on public servant with deadly weapons regarding several incidents reported from various locations,” Delhi Police informed.

The injured, including police personnel, were brought to the LNJP Hospital following the clashes on January 26.

Tens of thousands of farmers atop tractors broke barriers, clashed with police and entered the city from various points to lay siege to the Red Fort where they climbed the flagpole on Republic Day.

Oppositions parties have condemned the violence that broke out on the streets of the capital during the tractor rally of farmers, but squarely blamed the government for letting the situation deteriorate.

Meanwhile, 'high alert' has been sounded in Punjab and Haryana in light of the violence. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has further ordered the deployment of additional troops in parts of the national capital to contain the unrest.