Farmer leader Dallewal detained before indefinite fast; farmers to march to Delhi on Dec 6

PTC Web Desk: Jagjit Singh Dallewal, leader of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (non-political), was detained by the Punjab Police before beginning his indefinite fast at the Khanauri Border, situated on the Haryana-Punjab border, on Tuesday. The authorities took him to DMC Hospital in Ludhiana, where the area surrounding the hospital was sealed to prevent any public access.

Dallewal has refused to eat while in the hospital. In response to his detention, farmer leader Sukhjit Singh Hardo Jhande announced that he would now undertake an indefinite fast at Khanauri border. He also stated that if anything happens to him during the strike, another farmer will take his place.

Dallewal's supporters, including senior farmer leaders, confirmed that he remained in good health despite not eating since his arrival in Ludhiana. Meanwhile, farmers gathered at the Khanoori Border to protest against the detainment. In an attempt to defuse tensions, officials from both Haryana and Punjab agreed to open a 4-foot section of the Shambhu Border for passage, although no formal announcement was made regarding this arrangement.

In the wake of Dallewal's detention, wrestler Bajrang Punia condemned the move, stating that actions against farmers on Constitution Day were an assault on the Constitution itself. He urged farmers and youth to join protests at the Shambhu Border to challenge the Central and Punjab governments.

Earlier, farmer leader Sarwan singh Pandher reported that Dallewal was taken into custody around 2 am on Monday, with his whereabouts initially unknown. Pandher also demanded clarification from the Punjab Government regarding Dallewal's detention and his current location, warning of serious consequences if the issue was not addressed.

DIG of Patiala Range Mandeep Singh Sidhu said due to Dallewal's age and health concerns, the administration was worried about the potential impact of a large gathering on healthcare services. As a result, he was transferred to DMC Ludhiana for medical check-ups.

Meanwhile, Union Minister of State for Agriculture Ravneet Singh Bittu clarified that the Punjab Government, not central agencies, had detained Dallewal. He claimed that the state police's actions were intended to distract from the real issues by blaming the Central Government. Bittu said the Central Government remained committed to the welfare of farmers.

Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia condemned Dallewal's detention, calling it unconstitutional. He criticised the Punjab Government for taking action against a peaceful farmer protest and reiterated that such moves would not be tolerated.

Notably, on November 4, Dallewal had declared his intention to begin an indefinite fast coinciding with Parliament session's start. He also announced plans to march to Delhi with other farmers on December 6, vowing to continue the protest until their demands were met. In preparation for his strike, Dallewal transferred his property to his family to avoid any disputes after his death.

Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher confirmed that a march to Delhi would take place on December 6, with farmers walking instead of using tractors. Farmers from Punjab, Haryana, and other states are expected to participate.