Supreme Court Grants Punjab Government More Time to Comply with Medical Aid Order for Farmer Leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal
The Supreme Court of India has granted the Punjab government additional time to comply with its December 20 directive to provide medical assistance to farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a fast-unto-death since November 26. The decision came during a hearing presided over by a bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Sudhanshu Dhulia.
The matter has now been scheduled for further hearing on January 2, following a request by Punjab’s Advocate General Gurminder Singh for three more days to fulfill the court’s order. Singh informed the bench that the state government had submitted an application seeking the extension and explained the challenges faced in implementing the directive.
Challenges in Ensuring Compliance
The Advocate General revealed that nearly 7,000 personnel were mobilized to facilitate the operation at the protest site near the Khanauri border. However, a statewide bandh organized by farmers’ groups on the previous day created significant obstacles, including traffic blockades and logistical challenges, which delayed efforts to provide medical aid to Dallewal.
Singh also brought to the court’s attention a key development in the negotiations with the protesting farmers. According to him, the protesters suggested that Dallewal would agree to medical intervention if the central government initiated a dialogue with them.
Farmers Seek Central Government Engagement
“The negotiators informed us that the farmer leaders have proposed that if the central government invites them for talks, Dallewal would agree to receive the necessary medical assistance,” Singh stated before the bench. This proposal underscores the protesters’ demand for meaningful engagement with the central authorities to address their grievances.
Background of the Protest
Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s hunger strike is part of a larger farmers’ agitation aimed at drawing attention to unresolved issues concerning agricultural policies and farmers’ rights. The Punjab Bandh observed across the state further highlighted the widespread support for the movement, intensifying pressure on both state and central governments to engage in dialogue.
Next Steps
With the Supreme Court closely monitoring the situation, the Punjab government faces the dual challenge of ensuring compliance with the court’s order while addressing the underlying demands of the protesting farmers. The January 2 hearing will likely provide further clarity on the resolution of this critical issue.
This case underscores the complexities of balancing legal obligations, public protests, and the need for constructive dialogue in addressing agrarian concerns.
