The ‘Bharat Bandh’ called by farmer unions, demanding the repeal of the Centre’s new farm laws, evoked a mixed response in different districts of Haryana on Tuesday.
Activists from various farmers, civil society and employee organisations held widespread protests in the state against the farm laws which, they say, will destroy livelihoods.
Road networks -- both national and state highways were impacted in the state owing to the nationwide 'Bharat Bandh call from 11 am to 3 pm. Protesters at several places were seen displaying placards, saying 'No farmers, no food' and 'We are not terrorists'.
Shops and commercial establishments were also closed, and traffic was disrupted as protesters squatted on roads and train tracks in several parts of the state.
However, emergency services were exempted and banks, too, continued operations in the state.
The farmer leaders took out protest marches in cities, including Ambala, urging shopkeepers to shut their establishments in support of the bandh. They also raised anti-government slogans.
Protests were also reported from Hisar, Rohtak, Sonipat and other towns in neighbouring Haryana where opposition parties the Congress and the Indian National Lok Dal extended their support.
During the protest, farmers blocked the Delhi-Amritsar National Highway-44, connecting the national capital with northern states near Ambala. A few protesters parked their two-wheelers in the middle of the road, blocking the movement of traffic towards Delhi.
Meanwhile, heavy police deployment was seen on the highways. Police also diverted traffic on NH-44 from Pipli in Kurukshetra district and at Ambala as a precautionary measure due to the blockades.