Protesting Farmers Knock Down Police Barricades To Force Entry Into Delhi

New Delhi: Groups of protesting farmers knocked down police barricades to force their way into the national capital amid huge police presence as they kicked off their tractor rally against the three controversial farm laws.

According to officials, security personnel tried to convince the farmers that they have been given permission to hold their tractor parade in Delhi after the Republic Day parade at the Rajpath concludes. "But some groups of farmers did not relent and started moving towards the Outer Ring Road breaking police barricades," an official said.

Thousands were seen marching with flags; rows of tractors were seen on the three routes that were cleared the Delhi Police. A dramatic video from Delhi's Akshardham showed policemen firing tear gas shells from an overbridge as protesters on road looked for cover. 

At Mukarba chowk, protesters reportedly threw stones at cops.

The Delhi Police has issued traffic advisories for the Republic Day parade. Traffic diversions and alternative routes have been posted on Twitter by the police.