The protest farmers at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders were removed by Punjab Police on the late evening of March 19, 2025 (Wednesday); now, after around 13 months, the roads and routes have been cleared for general traffic. The operation to remove the farmers, their tents, and stages commenced on Wednesday night and continued till Thursday.
This action by the Punjab Police has relieved the general public as one side of the highway has finally opened.
The current traffic situation and its flow were shared by the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of Patiala Nanak Singh, who outlined that one side of the highway is open for commuters. He also highlighted that the highway is clear, and the vehicle movement is back to normal. He also assured that the traffic flow will be restored to normal within the next 3 to 4 hours.
A new protest in Haryana?
Following this action by the Punjab Police, several farmers came together under the banner of the All India Kisan Sabha and Bharatiya Kisan Union and marched towards the residence of Chief Minister of Haryana Nayab Singh Saini.
According to several reports, the Haryana Police also joined hands with the Punjab Police and removed the blockades at the Shambhu Border. Notably, the situation at the border is clear and under control.
“Protest was impacting Punjab’s economy and youth,” Finance Minister Harpal Cheema
Punjab Minister of Finance Harpal Singh Cheema has outlined that action has been taken to reopen the Shambhu and Khanauri borders as it directly or indirectly impacts the business (economy) and youth of the state.
The Minister, while having a conversation with ANI, said, "The AAP government and the people of Punjab stood with farmers during their protest against the three black laws. Their demands are against the central government. It’s been over a year now, and the Shambhu and Khanauri borders have remained closed. Punjab’s traders and youth are facing significant problems. Once businesses operate smoothly, youth will have better job opportunities, helping them stay away from drug addiction.”
He further outlined that the farmers should take their protests to Delhi as they are demanding from the central government.
The aforementioned statement was given by the Minister after several reports claimed that various farmer leaders, including Jagjit Singh Dallewal and Sarwan Singh Pandher, were detained by the police.