The Supreme Court on Wednesday expressed concern over the health of farmers’ leader Dallewal and said that the doors of the top court remain open for any suggestions or demands, either from the farmers directly or through their authorized representatives.
The bench of Justice Suryakant and Justice Ujjwal Bhuiyan was hearing the case over farmers’ protest at the Shambhu border, located between Punjab and Haryana.
The bench cautioned the authorities that serious consequences could arise if anything were to happen to the protesting farmers.
The bench added that the entire state machinery would be held accountable.
The bench enquired about the progress of the matter, asking, “What has happened after our order?”
In the previous hearing, the Court had instructed a high-powered committee to engage with the protesting farmers and persuade them to either temporarily relocate or suspend their protest.
Punjab’s Advocate General, Gurvinder Singh, informed the Court that following its order, discussions were held with protesting farmers.
It was informed to court that Dallewal has been on a hunger strike for over 20 days. Despite efforts to provide him with immediate medical assistance, Dallewal has refused even a medical examination.
Punjab AG assured the top court that Dallewal’s vital signs were stable and his body functions were normal.
During the discussions, the protesting farmers declined to participate in talks with the committee.
In light of this, Punjab’s Advocate General suggested that the farmers be allowed to present their demands directly to the Supreme Court.
(By Sambhav Sharma)
