Jagjit Singh Dallewal, 70, began his protest at the end of November and, despite his critical condition, yesterday refused medical treatment. Indian farmers in Punjab and Haryana have been calling for action for almost two years but have not received any response from the central government.
Khanauri (/Agencies) – The health of Jagjit Singh Dallewal, 70, leader of the Indian peasant movement, continues to deteriorate due to a hunger strike that began more than 40 days ago. Since February 2023, Indian farmers have been asking the central government for legal guarantees on minimum support prices and other reforms in favor of the sector and have organized demonstrations in the border areas between the States of Punjab and Haryana. Despite numerous appeals from various actors, Dallewal yesterday refused to receive medical treatment.
The farmers’ protests, led by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha unions, are based on old unresolved demands ignored until today, such as pensions for agricultural workers, cancellation of debts and implementation of a series of recommendations from government commissions. But, above all, the guarantee of a minimum support price, which is the price at which the government buys crops from farmers. Farmers say they are exposed to exploitation and huge economic losses if structural reforms are not carried out.
Dallewal began his hunger strike on November 26. On January 8, he met with the commission established by the Supreme Court, but without concrete results. Dallewal expressed his disappointment with both the Judiciary and the Executive, accusing them of not paying attention to the crisis.
The Punjab government, under pressure from the Supreme Court and public opinion, has sent emergency medical teams. “His condition is critical and we are managing the situation in the best possible way,” Dr. Avtar Singh, who is monitoring Dallewal, stated yesterday.
In recent days, unions have warned that nationwide demonstrations could take place. “These measures will intensify if the central government continues to ignore our demands,” said farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohar, noting that Dallewal’s death would be an indelible stain on the current government’s tenure.
The Samyukta Kisan Morcha has sought the intervention of President Droupadi Murmu, urging her to meet a delegation of farmers. The presidential office, citing agenda commitments, rejected the request, further fueling the protesters’ discontent. The Punjab government was also criticized for its late response and the Supreme Court has made it clear that it did not order an end to the hunger strike but insisted that Dallawel be hospitalized to ensure his survival.
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