The Supreme Court on Tuesday postponed proceedings regarding the Punjab government’s compliance with its directive to shift farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal to a hospital.
The matter is now scheduled for hearing on January 2.
The deferment follows a contempt petition filed against the Punjab government, with the vacation bench comprising Justice Suryakant and Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia presiding over the case.
During the session, Punjab’s Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) appeared via video conference to provide updates on the situation. The Supreme Court granted the state additional time to comply with its December 20 order, which emphasized addressing Dallewal’s health concerns. The Punjab government requested an extension of three more days to implement the directive.
Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a prominent farmer leader, has been on an indefinite hunger strike that entered its 36th day on Tuesday. Despite multiple attempts by a state team led by former Additional DGP Jaskaran Singh to persuade Dallewal to accept medical treatment, he has refused to end his protest or seek medical assistance.
Earlier, the Supreme Court had set a December 31 deadline for the Punjab government to persuade Dallewal to shift to a hospital, even allowing the state to seek logistical support from the Centre if necessary. However, Dallewal’s continued resistance has prompted the state to seek more time to resolve the matter.
The case highlights the complexity of balancing legal obligations and humanitarian concerns, particularly as Dallewal’s prolonged hunger strike poses serious health risks. The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores the urgency of the issue and the need for a resolution that ensures both legal compliance and the welfare of the farmer leader.
The January 2 hearing will be crucial in determining the next steps for the Punjab government and the ongoing efforts to safeguard Dallewal’s health.
(Inputs By Sambhav Sharma)
