Supreme Court Urges Swift Action on Farmers’ Protest, Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s Health
Supreme Court directed the Punjab government to ensure immediate medical aid for Dallewal in line with doctors’ advice.
Supreme Court on Farmers Protest at Shambhu and Khanauri Border and Jagjit Singh Dallewal's Hunger Strike: The Supreme Court on Monday expressed deep concern over the ongoing hunger strike by farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a fast-unto-death for more than 20 days. The apex court emphasized the need for immediate intervention, urging both the Punjab government and farmers to address the situation with urgency to prevent any adverse health consequences for Dallewal.
"What happened after our order?" asked Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, as the bench inquired about the measures taken since the previous court directive. Punjab Advocate General (AG) Gurminder Singh informed the court that discussions were held with Dallewal but revealed that he has refused medical tests and indoor admission despite doctors advising it in his best interest.
"Some sentiments he is carrying... there is peer pressure also," observed Justice Hrishikesh Roy, emphasizing that the state must act decisively to manage the situation.
Court’s Concern for Dallewal’s Health
Justice Kaul highlighted the responsibility of the state, cautioning against potential fallout. "He is a public personality, a leader of the masses. He represents their interests," the court noted. The bench reminded the Punjab government of its duty to ensure Dallewal's well-being and avoid a scenario where the state is held accountable if his health deteriorates further.
Despite the state’s efforts, the AG reported that Dallewal remained steadfast, citing the loss of over 700 farmers' lives during the protests as his justification for continuing the strike. "He said 700 lives are more important than his own," the AG told the court.
Justice Kaul stressed the importance of Dallewal's health, stating, "There can be differences of opinion with the state... but he needs to be healthy to agitate." The bench urged the state to handle the matter sensitively and swiftly, noting that both the government and the farmers must prioritize saving Dallewal's life.
Engagement with Farmers
The Supreme Court had previously constituted a High-Powered Committee (HPC) to mediate and address farmers' concerns, but the AG informed the bench that the farmers had declined to engage with the committee. Efforts to persuade them to participate are ongoing, he said.
Justice Kaul reminded the farmers that the court had opened its platform to hear their grievances directly and encouraged them to submit their demands through authorized representatives. "Even farmers should be concerned about saving his life. He is their leader!" the bench remarked, urging collective responsibility in resolving the impasse.
Court’s Directives
In its order, the Supreme Court directed the Punjab government to ensure immediate medical aid for Dallewal in line with doctors’ advice. The court reiterated that its doors remain open for the farmers to submit their demands directly or through representatives, ensuring that their concerns are addressed transparently.
The court also warned of the serious repercussions of inaction, emphasizing that peer pressure should not dictate decisions at the cost of Dallewal’s health. "The entire state machinery will be blamed if something happens to him," Justice Kaul cautioned.
A Call for Resolution
The farmers' protest has once again brought attention to longstanding grievances, including compensation for losses and policy changes. The Supreme Court's intervention aims to bridge the gap between the farmers and the state while ensuring that Dallewal's health remains a priority. As discussions continue, the nation watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the impasse.