Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Patiala was first by a sitting Prime Minister in 20 years. The temperature soared to 40 degrees, but that did not deter the enthusiasm of the citizens, who filled the 26.1-acre area, chanting “Modi-Modi” in fervent support.
The last Prime Minister to address a rally in Patiala was the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2004. During his speech, Modi fondly recalled his earlier days spent walking in Baradari Garden and engaging in candid conversations in the Jaurian Bhattian area of Patiala. He urged the people to make informed choices in the upcoming elections, emphasizing the importance of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).
Security was heightened in Patiala, transforming the city into a fortress. A deployment of 5,500 police and security personnel, along with trucks filled with sand at entry points to regulate vehicle movement, ensured complete cordoning off of the rally venue. The stepped-up security measures came in response to planned demonstrations by several farmer unions, including Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU, Ugrahan), and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM), who had vowed to show black flags to PM Modi during his visit.
Protests began hours before the scheduled rally at 5 pm, with some farmers already gathered at the entry points to Patiala. Those attending the rally were directed to designated parking areas and had to walk at least one kilometre to reach the venue. A heavy police presence was maintained at all entry points to ensure the event proceeded smoothly.