On Wednesday, the Supreme Court warned the Punjab government that if anything happens to farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, the entire state would be held responsible. Dallewal has been on a hunger strike for 23 days, and the court called for special measures to ensure his health and safety, including hospital care.
A panel of justices, Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan, emphasized that the court’s job is to make sure the farmers’ concerns are heard loud and clear by everyone involved. Justice Kant reminded the Punjab government’s attorney, Gurminder Singh, that they need to take extra steps to protect Dallewal’s health, and that serious situations need serious actions.
The court plans to review the situation again on Thursday at 2 PM. Earlier, the court had ordered the Punjab government to engage with farmers and ensure Dallewal’s well-being, promoting peaceful protests grounded in “Gandhian principles.” They also set up a high-level panel to help address farmers’ issues, including demands for legal guarantees for minimum support price (MSP).
Justice Kant stressed that Dallewal, a prominent figure, needs to stay healthy to represent the farmers’ cause effectively. Although his vital signs are stable, Dallewal refuses medical checks and hospital admission, preferring to continue his protest.
Justice Kant stated the government must protect Dallewal since it is their duty. He urged the Punjab AG to act quickly for Dallewal’s safety. The bench highlighted the importance of saving Dallewal’s life and reminded that the Supreme Court is open for farmers to voice their demands.
Dallewal started his hunger strike on November 26 as part of a larger movement seeking to legalize MSP and push for broader agricultural reforms. Farmers, organized under different groups, have been protesting at the Punjab-Haryana border since February, blocking major roads and causing disruptions.
Dallewal argues that MSP is critical for farmers’ survival and even wrote to Prime Minister Modi to stress its importance for rural livelihoods. A Supreme Court-appointed committee is mediating between farmers and the government, working to address key issues affecting agriculture, such as rising debt and climate challenges.
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