Tensions escalated in Bhopal as more than 2,000 farmers representing 19 agricultural organizations marched towards the Chief Minister’s official residence, demanding 100 percent procurement of their moong crop at Minimum Support Price (MSP). Breaking through multiple police barricades, the rallying farmers entered the capital city, prompting the administration to step up security measures and deploy heavy force to prevent further advancement.
Tractor Convoys and Scuffles at Barkatullah Bridge
The demonstration featured farmers marching on foot at the front, closely followed by a lengthy line of tractor-trolleys and other support vehicles. Scuffles broke out between the marchers and security personnel near Barkatullah Bridge, which sits roughly 7 kilometres away from the Chief Minister's residence. To control the rising crowd, authorities mobilized personnel from more than 20 police stations alongside specialized units, including the Special Auxiliary Force (SAF) and the Rapid Action Force (RAF).
Seven Days of Supplies and Unyielding Demands
Demonstrating their intent for a prolonged standoff, the arriving farmers came prepared with seven days worth of food rations and drinking water. Protesters declared that they would not retreat or dismantle their encampment until the government fully accepts their demand for total moong purchasing at MSP rates. Senior administrative and law enforcement officials remain on the scene to monitor developments, keeping forces on high alert to avoid violence or uncontrolled clashes.
Heavy Barricading, Water Cannons, and Armored Vehicles Deployed
As the surge of protesters closed in toward the heart of the city, police reinforced their defensive perimeter by parking buses end-to-end to block primary arteries. In addition to fortified barricades, emergency crowd-control apparatus including water cannons and specialized Vajra armored riot vehicles were stationed on standby near the confrontation points to ensure public order is maintained.
Highways Blocked and Commuters Stranded
The march disrupted transit along major regional transport routes. The busy highway running from Obedullaganj to Bhopal was shut down, while traffic along the Sultanpur route coming from the direction of Jabalpur experienced severe congestion and delays. As a result, long-distance travelers and local commuters faced significant hardship. This protest marks an intensification of ongoing agitation across Madhya Pradesh over crop procurement policies, following prior warnings from farm unions regarding highway blockades and assembly demonstrations.
