Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal's fast unto death enters Day 8; his sister reaches Khanauri border
Dallewal and his sister's emotional reunion leaves both teary-eyed | Farmer leader says the protest is not against Punjab but aimed at securing farmers' rights
PTC Web Desk: Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continues his fast unto death for the 8th consecutive day on Tuesday, intensifying the farmers' demand for MSPlaw. Amid rising concerns about his health, Dallewal’s sister visited him late at night at the Khanauri border to check on his well-being. Their emotional reunion left both teary-eyed.
Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who was earlier detained by the Punjab Police for 96 hours, has alleged mistreatment during his confinement. Farmers have since ramped up security for him, with volunteers taking responsibility for his protection.
Dallewal alleged that during his hospital stay in Ludhiana, he was effectively placed under house arrest. "I was taken from the Khanauri border to the hospital at night and was not allowed to carry a mobile phone. Even other patients were barred from using phones. It was only due to the farmers’ persistent efforts that I was released," he said.
He accused the authorities of attempting to force medical treatments on him. "They repeatedly tried to conduct blood tests and administer medication. If I wasn’t committed to this hunger strike, I might have even accepted their tea," Dallewal added.
Jagjit Singh Dallewal clarified that the protest was not against Punjab but aimed at securing farmers' rights. "This fight began on February 13 to save the future of farmers. The Punjab Government is acting on behalf of the Centre, but our demand is solely for an MSP law," he asserted.
Farmer leader Balbir Singh Rajewal criticised the government for halting talks with farmers since February 18. He alleged that while BJP leaders talk in the media, they ignore the ground realities. "Even Union Minister Piyush Goyal has indicated a preference for contract farming, while farmers demand an MSP law to ensure fair prices," Rajewal said.
According to reports, many farmers are unable to recover even their input costs, further justifying their demand for a legal MSP guarantee.
On the other hand, the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha held a meeting with leaders from six states to finalise plans for a march to Delhi on December 6. The meeting covered logistics, including langar arrangements, security measures, and volunteer deployment. Farmers from Punjab, Haryana, and other states will participate in the march.