Hundreds of protesters have gathered at a rally in a Tier 3 area to raise awareness of the agricultural reforms facing Indian farmers.
Tractors, cars and vans adorned in orange flags gathered in Birmingham and West Bromwich for the Kisaan Car Rally, despite the areas being at high risk of Covid-19 infections.
The event kicked off at 10.30am this morning at the Guru Mar Rai Gudwara in West Bromwich and lead through the streets to protest at the Consulate General of India in the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham Live reports.
It was organised to raise awareness of agricultural reforms being introduced by Indian leader Nahendra Modi’s ruling BJP party.
The new laws would deregulate the sale of crops and reduce subsidies to farmers.
Police said while they "respect and support" people's right to vote, they are urging those attending the event to "leave immediately" as they "pose a risk to public health".
A West Midlands police spokesperson said: “We’re aware that large demonstrations in relation to agricultural reforms in India are taking place in Birmingham and Sandwell today.
“Although Birmingham and Sandwell are no longer in lockdown, both areas remain on very high alert in tier three, and strict regulations introduced by the Government remain in place to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.
“In the midst of the pandemic it is crucial that people do everything they can, including limiting social contact, to reduce the spread of coronavirus. Personal choices matter and we’re simply asking people to act responsibly in order to protect others from harm.
“Deliberately not following the regulations and measures put in place to limit the spread of the virus is unacceptable and our officers will take the appropriate action where necessary."
The rally has also caused severe traffic disruption throughout West Bromwich, Birmingham city centre and the Jewellery Quarter.
Superintendent Sarah Burton from West Midlands Police said: “I would strongly urge anyone who is planning to come to the West Midlands area to reconsider due to the ongoing congestion.
“I would also encourage anyone who is currently in attendance at the rally to leave the area as soon as possible.
“Despite attempts to engage and identify an organiser for this event we were unable to do so.
“We do recognise the right for a peaceful demonstration, but the traffic is now causing major issues for emergency vehicles and other motorists.
A West Midlands Police Ambulance spokesman said: "If you see an ambulance on blue lights and sirens, please let them through so they can attend patients as quickly and safely as possible. When attending a life-threatening emergency, every second counts. Thank you."
Jasveer Singh, senior press officer for the Sikh Press Association said: "Britain, of course, has long deep ties with the Indian state.
"Some would say they created it. What happens with the Indian economy can often be influenced by its trade relationship with the UK.
"As such, British Sikhs will expect their government to act on this issue. They will feel it as British citizens they have a right to protest."
What are the protests about?
Global protests have been sparked in response to three new farming acts that have been passed by the Indian parliament.
Under the new regulations, the rules controlling the sale, storage and pricing of farm produce would be loosened.
For agricultural workers in the country, it is feared that this will no longer provide guaranteed minimum profits.
It is also believed that corporations would be able to hoard essential commodities for future sales which would have a detrimental impact on farmers’ earnings.
