Violent Clashes at Khanauri Border Result in Farmer’s Death: Haryana Police and Protesters Offer Conflicting Narratives

In a tragic turn of events at the Khanauri border, clashes between security personnel and protesting farmers resulted in the death of 21-year-old farmer Shubhkaran Singh from Bhatinda. Twelve police personnel were also injured in the clashes. The medical superintendent of Patiala’s Rajindra Hospital reported an injury to Shubhkaran Singh’s head, but the exact cause of death will be determined after a post-mortem examination. While officials claim Shubhkaran Singh died of a bullet injury, farmers at the border allege that police fired rubber bullets along with tear gas shells.

The Haryana police assert that farmers attacked security personnel with stones and sticks. They also claim that protesters poured chili powder on stubble and set it on fire after surrounding security personnel at the Khanauri border. AAP leader and Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh condemned the police action as a “murder of democracy,” while Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal claimed Singh died due to police firing. However, the exact cause of death remains unconfirmed.

Shubhkaran Singh, a hard-working contract farmer, participated in the 2021 farmers’ agitation and was among 15 farmers from his village who joined the Delhi Chalo march. He is survived by two sisters, and the locals are now caring for his livestock. The incident has added fuel to the ongoing tensions between farmers and the authorities, with conflicting narratives surrounding the events at the Khanauri border.