Farmer leader Ranjodh Singh 's body brought to Shambhu border; Khap Panchayats extend support to ongoing protest
PTC Web Desk: The body of Ranjodh Singh, a farmer who allegedly died by suicide after being stopped from marching to Delhi, was brought to the Shambhu border on Thursday. Farmer leaders, including Kisan Mazdoor Morcha coordinator Sarwan Singh Pandher, paid tributes to the deceased.
Meanwhile, Haryana’s Khap Panchayats held a meeting at Kisan Bhawan in Chandigarh and extended their support to the ongoing farmers' protest. A Khap Mahapanchayat has been scheduled for December 29 in Hisar to discuss the way forward, urging the government to engage in dialogue with the farmers.
The Supreme Court will also resume its hearing on the farmers’ protests on December 19. In the previous day’s proceedings, the apex court directed farmers to present their demands directly to the Bench. The apex court also instructed the Punjab Government to ensure proper medical care for farmer leader jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a fast unto death for the past 24 days. Dallewal’s deteriorating health has become a major concern, and the court maintained that his well-being is critical for the movement.
Advocate General Gurvinder Singh, representing the Punjab Government, suggested admitting Dallewal to the hospital. However, Justice Surya Kant pointed out the emotional attachment farmers have with Dallewal and stressed the state’s responsibility to handle the situation carefully without any delays.
The court highlighted that as a public figure associated with farmers' welfare, Dallewal’s health is of utmost importance. While Dallewal refused medical assistance, citing the sacrifices of 700 farmers during earlier protests, the Supreme Court noted that his participation in the movement requires him to remain in good health. The court suggested that farmers could approach it directly to present their concerns and demands.
Farmers have been protesting at the Shambhu border since February 13, 2024, and the Khanauri border has also emerged as a key site of dissent. The Haryana Police have blocked the farmers from marching to Delhi, leading to prolonged standoffs. On July 10, the Punjab and Haryana High Court ordered the opening of the Shambhu border within a week. However, the Haryana Government challenged the ruling in the Supreme Court.
On August 12, 2024, the Supreme Court directed the opening of one lane at the Shambhu border for ambulances, senior citizens, women, and students. The court also formed a committee to mediate between the farmers and the government. Despite the committee’s efforts, an interim report submitted on December 10 revealed that farmers have been unresponsive to requests for discussions.
On December 13, the Supreme Court mandated immediate medical assistance for Dallewal, warning that his life was more important than the movement. The court also advised that no force-feeding should be done. Following these directives, Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav and Central Home Director Mayank Mishra visited the Khanauri border to engage with Dallewal.
On the other hand, Sarwan Singh Pandher, leading the current agitation, announced a Punjab Bandh on December 30 to intensify their demands for a law guaranteeing Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops. He urged supporters to join the shutdown while exempting emergency services.
The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), comprising around 40 farmer organisations, has, however, distanced itself from this protest. Following an emergency meeting in Chandigarh on December 18, SKM leaders stated they would not participate directly in the movement led by Dallewal and Pandher. SKM leader Joginder Singh Ugrahan announced plans for a statewide protest on December 23 and a meeting in Chandigarh on December 24 to strategise future actions.
- PTC NEWS
