New Delhi: All India Kisan Federation has called for a nationwide shutdown on December 8, Tuesday against three new farm laws passed by the Centre. Hundreds of farmers continue to protest on Delhi borders after the fifth round of talks with the Center failed to break the deadlock. The farmers claim that the new farm laws will end the minimum support price system (MSP) in the future and will give corporates total control over the agriculture sector. The protest has gained support from opposition parties and various celebrities from the entertainment and sports industry.

When does the protest start

Bhartiya Kisan Union spokesperson Rakesh Tikait said that the protest will be peaceful and does not intend to cause trouble to the common man. The symbolic protest will start at 11:00 AM so that everyone can reach their offices and will end at 3:00 pm. The spokesperson has also urged people to extend their support non-violently. Emergency services like ambulance and fire will not be disturbed due to the protest.

What all is closed in the capital

Delhiites may face some trouble in accessing taxi and auto services as several unions have decided to support the protest by shutting their service while other unions have said that they sympathize with farmers but can’t shut their last-mile vehicle services because they have already been hit severely due to lockdown earlier this year.

Several bank unions have also decided to express their support to the farmers through black-band protests. Thus bank services are less likely to affect.

There will be a shortage in the supply of fruits and vegetables in the capital because most of the traders are supporting the protest. Hence, mandis at Ghazipur, Okhla, and Narela will be severely impacted.

States affected due to the protest

Apart from Delhi, the impact of Bharat Bandh will be well observed in Punjab. States like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, West Bengal, Telangana, and Northeastern states of Tripura and Assam have also extended their support to the farmers. Traffic congestion is expected in these states, and the government is likely to issue a travel advisory.

What centre is doing

The centre has issued an advisory to all states and union territories to tighten their security while highlighting that peace and tranquility must be maintained throughout the country. Meanwhile, the Union Home Minister Amit Shah has asked all the states and UTÂs to ensure social distancing and other preventive measures taken concerning the prevailing Covid situation.