Chandigarh, The Haryana government has announced a further extension of the mobile internet and bulk SMS suspension in seven districts due to the continuing farmers’ ‘Delhi Chalo’ agitation. This decision affects Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad, and Sirsa, where the suspension first took effect on February 11 and has since been extended on multiple occasions.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the latest order issued by Additional Chief Secretary T V S N Prasad on Friday cites the ongoing critical and tense law and order situation in these districts as the reason for the continued suspension. The government’s move comes in response to the protests led by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, who are demanding the implementation of a minimum support price (MSP) law for crops and a waiver of farm loans.

The ‘Delhi Chalo’ agitation, which has seen protesting farmers from Punjab camp at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points since February 13, aims to pressure the government into meeting their demands. The farmers’ march to Delhi was halted by security personnel, leading to a standoff that has prompted the state to take measures to control the situation.

Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher announced that the protestors intend to remain at the two border points until February 29, at which point they will decide on their next steps. The extended internet suspension underscores the extent of the disruptions caused by the protests and the government’s concern over maintaining public order during this period of civil unrest.