Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted the Punjab government an extension until January 2 to hospitalize farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike since November 26, demanding agrarian reforms and a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP). This extension follows Punjab’s request citing ongoing negotiations and intervening circumstances.
A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Sudhanshu Dhulia noted the state’s efforts to negotiate with farmers but emphasized compliance with its December 20 order to provide medical aid to Dallewal, whose health remains precarious.
Punjab Cites Negotiations, SC Stresses Urgency
Punjab Advocate General Gurminder Singh informed the court of ongoing talks between the protesting farmers, a negotiation team, and the Union government. Singh stated that Dallewal expressed willingness to accept medical treatment if the Centre agreed to hold discussions on their demands.
The bench acknowledged the complexities of the situation, saying, “We will be happy if something comes through,” while emphasizing the need for adherence to the court’s orders.
Court Criticizes Punjab’s Law-and-Order Approach
The Supreme Court earlier criticized Punjab’s inability to hospitalize Dallewal, calling it a failure of law-and-order machinery and equating it to “abetment to suicide.” The court expressed dissatisfaction with the state’s tacit support for the protesters, which included creating a “virtual fort” around the protest site, preventing medical intervention.
On December 20, the court directed Punjab to act urgently, warning the state would bear full responsibility if harm befell Dallewal.
Contempt Petition Filed
A contempt petition was filed against Punjab’s Chief Secretary and Police Chief for failing to comply with court orders. The court directed both officials to be virtually present at the next hearing on January 2.
Haryana Seeks Relief on Border Blockade
Meanwhile, Haryana moved the Supreme Court seeking relief against a Punjab and Haryana High Court order to lift the blockade at the Shambhu border, which was established to prevent farmers from marching to Parliament.
Dallewal’s Hunger Strike and Demands
Dallewal began his hunger strike on November 26, demanding debt relief, agrarian reforms, and a legal guarantee for MSP. The farmer leader’s condition has deteriorated significantly, drawing attention to the challenges in balancing law enforcement with protecting human lives amidst ongoing protests.
