What happened

Haryana police sealed the Shambhu border area and stopped Punjab farmers from moving towards Delhi for a Kisan Mahapanchayat. The gathering had been called by the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Ugrahan) to protest the India-United States trade deal and to press several farm-related demands.

Farmers continued to organise around the border area, while Haryana officials said the restrictions were necessary to preserve order and manage traffic and security.

Background and earlier position

Punjab farmer mobilisation has repeatedly used border points and highway corridors to press the Union and state governments on farm prices, procurement, and market access. In such protests, state authorities often cite public order, traffic disruption, and security concerns, especially when large gatherings are expected near the National Capital Region.

Why this matters for UPSC