Centre sends countrywide advisory for 'Bharat Bandh'; asks states to tighten security, ensure peace

Talks between the government and the organisations have not moved forward as three rounds of talks since November 25 did not yield any positive results

Farmers attend a protest against the newly passed farm bills at Singhu border near New Delhi, India, December 7, 2020. Credit: REUTERS

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has asked all states and union territories to keep a strict vigil during Tuesday's 'Bharat Bandh' by farmers' organisations, which is supported by Opposition parties, and ensure that Covid-19 guidelines are strictly followed.

In its advisory to states and union territories, it said peace and tranquillity must be maintained and precautionary measures should be taken so that no untoward incident takes place anywhere in the country.

Track live updates on the farmers' protest here

The farmer organisations have given a 'Bharat Bandh' call on Tuesday as part of its ongoing agitation against three controversial farm sector laws and Electricity (Amendment) Bill 2020.

Talks between the government and the organisations have not moved forward with three rounds of talks since November 25 did not yield any positive results. Another round of talks is scheduled for Wednesday.

Thousands of farmers are protesting at border points of Delhi against the new farm laws.

At least 24 Opposition parties have come out in support of the farmer organisations' bandh call. The parties supporting the Bandh call are Congress, CPI(M), DMK, CPI, RJD, NCP, JMM, SP, BSP, Shiv Sena, Akali Dal, CPI(ML), Gupkar Alliance, Trinamool Congress, TRS, AIMIM, AAP, PWP, BVA, RSP, JD(S), SUCI(C), Forward Bloc and Swaraj India.