SC orders immediate medical aid for Jagjit Singh Dallewal, says 'his life is important than any movement'

PTC Web Desk: The Supreme Court has issued stern directives to the Punjab and Central governments to provide immediate medical assistance to farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is on a hunger strike at the Khanauri border between Haryana and Punjab. The apex court said Jagjit Singh Dallewal should not be forced to eat, stating, "Dallewal's life is more important than the movement."

The top court also urged farmers to maintain peace and instructed that no force be used against Dallewal. These directives were issued during the hearing of the ongoing case concerning the reopening of the Shambhu border. Additionally, an interim report from a committee constituted by the Supreme Court was submitted during the proceedings. The next hearing is scheduled for December 17.

Petition in HC to end Dallewal’s hunger strike

A petition has also been filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court seeking to end Jagjit Singh Dallewal's hunger strike, citing his critical health condition. Advocate Vasu Ranjan Shandilya, who filed the plea, stated that the situation is dire.

On the other hand, Ambala Deputy Commissioner (DC) has raised concerns over potential law and order issues stemming from Dallewal’s condition. In a letter to Sangrur DC, the Ambala DC stressed the need for urgent medical intervention, noting that Dallewal's deteriorating health could lead to unrest.

Dallewal, a cancer patient, has been on a hunger strike for 18 days as of Friday, and his health continues to decline. According to reports, he has lost approximately 12 kg, faces the risk of kidney damage, and is at heightened risk of a heart attack. His blood pressure and sugar levels remain critically low.

A team of cancer specialists from the US and government doctors examined him on Thursday and confirmed that his condition is critical.

The protest at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders has entered its 10th month. Farmers are planning to burn effigies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and the Chief Ministers of Punjab and Haryana at the Khanauri border to mark their grievances.

On Thursday, Dallewal wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signing it in his own blood. In the letter, he urged the Central Government to fulfill its promises and referred to the letter as his first and last communication.

Earlier, Dallewal released a video message urging supporters to remain steadfast in the movement over the next week.

Notably, farmers have again announced plans to march towards Delhi from the Shambhu border on December 14 for the third time. Additionally, a tractor march is planned across states, except Punjab, on December 16. Memorandums addressed to the President will be submitted to district and sub-divisional magistrates on the same day.

In their previous attempts on December 6 and 8, the Haryana Police thwarted farmers’ marches at the border using tear gas and water cannons.