'Bhagwant Mann betrayed Punjab farmers': Jagjit Singh Dallewal takes on Punjab CM, PM Modi at maha panchayat
PTC Web Desk: After being discharged from a Patiala hospital, SKM (non-political) leader jagjit Singh Dallewal attended a maha panchayat at his native village, Dallewal. He flayed Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that the state government has betrayed Punjab’s farmers.
Dallewal accused CM Bhagwant Mann of putting Punjab’s agricultural sector at risk just to shield Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal. He said crop diversification was only possible if the MSP was guaranteed, without which Punjab’s depleting groundwater resources could not be saved.
Addressing the farmers, Dallewal said the recent protests had created significant pressure on the Central Government. He alleged that the government was planning to sign a new trade deal with the United States that could adversely affect Indian farmers. Dallewal challenged PM Modi’s 56-inch chest claim, stating that it would only be proven if Modi refuses to accept the conditions imposed by the US.
"If the government surrenders to US demands, it becomes our duty to resist. Foreign imports of milk, grains, and other agricultural products will hurt Indian farmers, and we must fight to protect our future generations," Dallewal said.
Dallewal vowed to expand the farmer movement across India, warning the authorities against harassing those searching for stolen trolleys and farming equipment. He announced a series of farmer protests scheduled across Punjab and Haryana from April to May, with key events planned in Ferozepur, Moga, Patiala, Mohali, Barnala, Muktsar Sahib, Ferozepur, Amritsar, and Mansa.
Since November 26, 2023, Dallewal has been on a hunger strike for MSP's legal guarantee and 13 other demands. His fast reached its 129th day before his hospitalisation. Despite government claims that the hunger strike had ended, farmers insisted otherwise.
On March 19, farmers marching to Delhi were detained by the Punjab Police after attending a government meeting. The protest sites at Shambhu and Khanauri borders were dismantled. The Punjab and Haryana High Court later intervened, allowing Dallewal’s family and supporters to meet him.
- PTC NEWS
