Bharat Bandh Today: Bus services halted, shops shut in Punjab

Bharat Bandh Today Latest News Update: Several farmers' unions have called for a 'Bharat Bandh' as the protest at Shambhu and Khanauri borders entered day four today. In view of the farmers' protest, large gatherings have been banned in Delhi-NCR as Section 144 has been imposed. On the other hand, the farmers have vowed to intensify the protest, with the Noida-based Bharatiya Kisan Parishad extending support to the nationwide strike.

Third round of meeting, which was held for over five hours, between the leaders of protesting farmers' unions and three Union ministers got no breakthrough, however, it reportedly ended in a positive manner. Likewise, another round of meeting is scheduled to be held on Sunday (February 18).

'Bharat Bandh', which started at 6 am today, will remain in effect till 4 pm. The farmers will be participating in a massive 'chakka jam' across major Indian roads from 12 pm to 4 pm while petrol and diesel would also remain closed during these hours as petrol pump dealers association has also supported the call for bandh. 

It is pertinent to mention that Punjab Chief Minister and AAP leader Bhagwant Mann expressed solidarity with the protesting farmers. He even criticised the use of drones and putting up of barbed fences on the state's borders with Haryana. He also criticised the suspension of internet services in three Haryana districts.

The Centre and farmer unions held the third round of talks on Thursday after the two previous rounds of dialogue remained inconclusive on February 8 and 12 before the farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' agitation began on Tuesday (February 13).