District authorities of Harda in Madhya Pradesh issued written orders to local officials asking them to check protests by farmers during the visit of state agriculture minister Gauri Shankar Bisen on Oct 27.

“Keep an eye on farmers’ activity and ensure no farmers’ agitation can be held and no one can show black flags during his visit,” the notice signed by the district magistrate, Anay Dwivedi, read.

“…please inform on given mobile numbers (9425167906 or 8718923246), however, if any official failed to do so, they shall face strict action,” the notice went on. According to the order, local officials were to keep an eye out for black flags that may be shown to the visiting minister.