New Delhi, Jan 26 (UNI) The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has called off the Kisan Republic Day Parade with immediate effect and appealed to all the participants to immediately return to their respective protest sites.
The farmers' body further announced the movement will continue peacefully. "Further steps will be discussed & decided soon," it said in a statement.
Earlier SKM had said that they express their gratitude towards the farmers for the unprecedented participation in today's Farmers Republic Day Parade, however, disassociated themselves from those who indulged in acts of violence.
"We condemn and regret the undesirable and unacceptable events that have taken place today and dissociate ourselves from those indulging in such acts," the statement read.
Violent clashes erupted today when a section of farmers decided to enter Delhi to register their protest against the three contentious farm laws, much ahead of the time they were granted permission by the Delhi police.
Dramatic scenes of violent clashes were witnessed when the farmers reached the ITO area of Central Delhi. Several people were injured in the clashes but the exact number is yet to be determined. Till now, according to sources, one farmer has lost his life.
The SKM further said that despite all our efforts, some organisations and individuals violated route and indulged in condemnable acts. "Anti-social elements had infiltrated the otherwise peaceful movement. We've always held that peace is our biggest strength & any violation would hurt the movement," it said.
The farmer's body appealed the protestors to stick to the route and norms of the parade, and not indulge in any violent action or anything that taints national symbols and dignity.
Till now, according to sources, one farmer has lost his life at the ITO area of the capital.
UNI JAL SHK2000