Farmers’ Protest at Red Fort - January 26, 2021

On January 26, 2021, during India’s Republic Day celebrations, the ongoing farmers’ protests against the Indian government’s new agricultural laws escalated dramatically in New Delhi. Thousands of farmers, primarily from the states of Punjab and Haryana, convened in the capital to express their discontent with three laws passed in September 2020, which they feared would dismantle the Minimum Support Price system and leave them vulnerable to exploitation by larger corporations.

Context and Build-up

The protest movement, which began in November 2020, saw vast numbers of farmers camp at the borders of Delhi, demanding the repeal of three contentious farm bills. The laws aimed to deregulate the agricultural sector, allowing farmers to sell their produce outside government-regulated wholesale markets. However, many farmers believed these reforms would threaten their livelihoods and lead to corporate domination.

January 26 Events

Despite previous negotiations and the ongoing protest, tensions reached a peak on January 26. The farmers had planned a tractor parade to coincide with Republic Day festivities, which traditionally showcase India’s military strength and cultural heritage. Initially permitted by authorities, the parade was to follow a mutually agreed-upon route, but some groups deviated and breached security barriers.

A segment of the protesters veered toward the historic Red Fort, an iconic symbol of India’s independence, and clashed with police. In the chaotic scenes that followed, protesters entered the fort complex, hoisting flags from its ramparts. This act, particularly the hoisting of the Nishan Sahib, a Sikh religious flag, drew significant attention and stirred national debate.

Aftermath

The events at the Red Fort were met with condemnation from various quarters, including the Indian government and other organizations. Violence erupted in parts of the capital, resulting in injuries to several individuals, including police officers and some protestors. The Delhi Police launched investigations, arresting and charging several individuals they considered responsible for the violence and violation of the parade agreement.

In the wake of these events, dialogues between farmers’ unions and the Indian government continued, although a resolution was slow to emerge. The January 26 incident highlighted the deepened mistrust between the protesting farmers and the Indian authorities, underscoring the contentious nature of the agricultural reforms under debate.