The Supreme Court on Friday voiced serious concerns about the life and safety of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike.
The court directed the Punjab government to ensure he receives necessary medical aid without delay.
A vacation bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia issued a notice to the Punjab government in response to a contempt petition filed against the state’s chief secretary. The petition alleged non-compliance with an earlier Supreme Court order mandating medical assistance for Dallewal.
“If there is a law and order situation, you have to deal with it with an iron hand. Somebody’s life is at stake. You need to take it seriously. Medical aid has to be given, and the impression is that you are not following it,” the bench observed.
The apex court instructed the Punjab government to submit a compliance report by Saturday. It emphasized that protecting life and adhering to judicial directives are paramount, particularly in sensitive situations like this.
Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a prominent farmer leader, began his hunger strike on November 26 at the Khanauri border point. His protest aims to press the Central government to address several demands raised by farmers, including a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) on crops.
The court’s intervention highlights the critical nature of the ongoing protest and underscores the urgency of resolving the matter to prevent harm to Dallewal’s health.
The case is scheduled for further hearing on Saturday, where the compliance report from the Punjab government will be reviewed.
This development reflects the judiciary’s active role in safeguarding individual rights while emphasizing the state’s responsibility to maintain law and order.
(Inputs By Sambhav Sharma)
