Supreme Court Questions Punjab Govt. on Farmer Leader Dallewal’s Medical Aid Amid Ongoing Protest

Punjab, India: The Supreme Court has expressed deep concerns over the Punjab government's failure to ensure timely medical aid for farmers' leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is currently on a fast unto death at the Khanauri border. Dallewal, protesting the Centre's refusal to provide a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, has been fasting since November 26.

In a recent hearing, Justices Surya Kant and Sudhanshu Dhulia questioned the protesting farmers for obstructing efforts to shift Dallewal to a hospital for medical attention, despite clear instructions from the Court. The Bench emphasized that the farmer leader’s life was at risk and required urgent care. “Somebody's life is at stake. You need to take it seriously," said Justice Dhulia.

The Court directed the State to immediately ensure that Dallewal is given proper medical care. Punjab’s Advocate General, Gurminder Singh, argued that physical interference with Dallewal could be avoided, but this failed to convince the Court, which expressed doubts that the state was taking adequate action.

The Supreme Court had previously ordered the Punjab government to shift Dallewal to a makeshift hospital for round-the-clock monitoring. Despite reports of a senior ministerial delegation meeting the fasting leader, the Court issued a stern reminder for compliance, requesting an affidavit from the Punjab Chief Secretary and DGP by the next day.

The Court’s overriding concern remains the leader’s safety, highlighting the need for prompt action to protect his life.