Farmer Protests: Political Battle Lines Drawn

Amid growing support from unions and opposition parties for tomorrow's "Bharat Bandh" call, some services could get affected in Delhi - now the epicentre of farmers' protests - and the rest of the country. The farmers have called for a "peaceful" nationwide shutdown on December 8, a day ahead of the sixth round of talks with the government for repeal of contentious farm laws. Farmers reiterated they won't give space to any political party and said their protest is "peaceful and will continue that way". However, the centre has issued a nationwide advisory suggesting "tight security" for "peace" and ensuring COVID-19 guidelines are followed.