By IANS,
Agra : Additional companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and the Uttar Pradesh Police moved into volatile areas here as an uneasy calm prevailed Monday, a day after the region saw violent protests by farmers over land acquisition.
Additional forces were deployed in Chaugana and Garhi Rami areas of Agra district, which saw violent clashes between farmers and policemen. Tension mounted following the arrest of Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) leaders Anil Choudhary and Babu Lal.
“No politician would be permitted to enter the area to fan trouble,” Deputy Inspector General of Police Aseem Arun said.
Senior police officers said all those who were involved in Sunday’s vandalism and rampage will be arrested.
The around 18-km stretch of the Yamuna Expressway in the district had been divided into three zones, each headed by senior police and administrative officials who were camping at the sites.
Leaders of the agitating farmers said they will hold a ‘Maha Panchayat’ May 15 to decide on the future course of action.
Farmers say the Jaypee Group is acquiring much more land than needed to construct the 165-km Yamuna Expressway between New Delhi and Agra. When ready, the expressway is expected to cut travelling time between New Delhi and Agra by an hour.
Many farmers have fled their homes, fearing arrest. In several villages, only women, children and elderly are left.