Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s hunger strike enters Day 30; condition critical

PTC Web Desk: Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s hunger strike at the Punjab-Haryana border entered its 30th day on Wednesday, demanding a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops and 12 other key demands. His health has deteriorated significantly, with reports indicating that his weight has drastically reduced.

In a new letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dallewal has urged the government to create an MSP guarantee law based on the report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture. The letter also emphasises the importance of addressing farmers' concerns through legislative action.

In a show of solidarity, Khap Panchayats from Uttar Pradesh have also lent their support to the ongoing farmers' movement. These panchayats are expected to participate in a grand meeting of Khap Panchayats in Hisar, Haryana, on December 29. Earlier, Khap Panchayats from Haryana held a press conference in Chandigarh, announcing their support for the farmers' cause.

An important meeting is also set to take place at the Khanauri border regarding the proposed Punjab Bandh. The meeting will include leaders from trade unions, taxi unions, religious, and social organisations to strategize for Punjab bandh. The Punjab Bandh will take place from 7 am to 4 pm. Farmers' leader Sarwan Singh Pandher has also invited government employees to join the protest.

Despite the hunger strike entering its third week, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) has not yet officially joined the protest. Ongoing discussions are taking place, and it was decided at a meeting on December 24 in Chandigarh that farmers would meet the President or the Agriculture Minister in the first week of January. A nationwide candle march was also organised in support of the movement.

Meanwhile, a hearing regarding Dallewal's health is scheduled for January 2 in the Supreme Court.