The Supreme Court on Saturday issued a directive to the Punjab government, setting a December 31 deadline to persuade farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal to end his indefinite hunger strike and seek medical attention. Dallewal has been fasting at the Khanauri border since November 26, demanding a legal guarantee for minimum support prices (MSP) for crops and other farmer-related issues.
Court Criticizes Punjab Government
A vacation bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Sudhanshu Dhulia reprimanded the AAP-led Punjab government for its perceived inaction in addressing the escalating situation. The court emphasized the urgency of shifting Dallewal to a hospital, noting the life-threatening nature of his condition.
Resistance at Protest Site
Punjab Advocate General Gurminder Singh informed the bench that the government faced significant resistance from the protesting farmers encircling Dallewal, preventing authorities from providing medical assistance. He revealed that Dallewal declined any form of medical help, including intravenous drips, stating it would undermine the farmers’ movement.
“He (Dallewal) has refused any kind of medical aid, including IV drips, saying that it will undermine the cause of the movement,” Singh said.
Supreme Court’s Observations
The court expressed concern over Dallewal’s well-being, noting that peer pressure and the actions of fellow protestors were obstructing efforts to save his life. The bench stated that those preventing his hospitalization could be held accountable for abetment to suicide.
“Are they interested in his life or something else? We don’t want to say much and only hope that the Punjab government will comply with our directions,” the court remarked.
The bench permitted the Punjab government to seek logistical support from the central government if needed to resolve the situation.
Earlier Directions and Contempt Petition
On Friday, the Supreme Court directed the Punjab government to ensure medical aid was provided to Dallewal. The court had also issued a notice regarding a contempt petition against Punjab’s chief secretary and director general of police for non-compliance with its earlier orders.
Farmer Leader’s Health and Movement
The farmer leader’s indefinite fast has drawn attention to the plight of farmers and their demands. However, his refusal of medical care has raised concerns about his health and the influence of protestors around him.
The Punjab government faces mounting pressure to address the situation and comply with the Supreme Court’s deadline to safeguard Dallewal’s life while managing the demands of the farmer community.
Sources By Agencies