Farmer Leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s Health Deteriorates Amid Ongoing Hunger Strike for MSP Legislation

GG News Bureau
Khanauri, 23^rd Dec. Jagjit Singh Dallewal, the prominent farmer leader on a fast-unto-death for the last 28 days at the Khanauri border protest site, remains in critical condition, sparking widespread concern among his supporters and medical professionals. Doctors monitoring his health have raised alarms over the severe deterioration in his condition, warning that he could face cardiac arrest or multi-organ failure.

“Dallewal’s nervous system is severely affected, his blood pressure is fluctuating, and he is experiencing acute protein and fluid deficiencies,” medical professionals reported on Sunday. “His liver and other organs are showing signs of dysfunction, and he could suffer a heart attack at any moment,” they added.

The hunger strike is part of the ongoing farmer agitation demanding the legalisation of Minimum Support Price (MSP) through new legislation. Thousands of farmers, along with hundreds of tractor-trolleys, have gathered at the protest site to show support for Dallewal’s cause. The protest, which began on February 13 under the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha and SKM-Non-Political banner, has seen growing participation as Dallewal’s health continues to worsen.

A recent Supreme Court report suggesting that Dallewal’s condition is “normal” has been strongly contested by the farmers. “The Supreme Court’s report does not reflect the reality. Tests indicate that Dallewal’s ketone levels are 25% higher than normal, a significant health risk that has been ignored,” said Abhimanyu Kohar, a farmer leader.

Tensions are escalating, with farmer leader Surjit Singh Phool warning of violent repercussions if Dallewal is forcibly removed from the protest site. “If the administration tries to move Dallewal, it will lead to bloodshed. The responsibility will lie with the authorities,” Phool said.

The protesters are also calling for action on a report by the Parliamentary Committee on MSP, led by former Punjab CM Charanjit Singh Channi. The report, which has garnered support from 30 committee members, including BJP representatives, advocates for the establishment of a commission on MSP and addresses critical issues such as low farmer incomes and the underutilisation of agricultural budgets.

In a show of solidarity, several political leaders and celebrities have visited the protest site. Former Punjab CM Charanjit Singh Channi stated that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi might visit if required. However, BJP MP Ravneet Singh Bittu criticised these visits, accusing them of being more about “photo opportunities” than genuine concern.

The farmers have announced a nationwide candle march on December 24 and a hunger strike on December 26, although Punjab will not participate in the latter due to the ongoing Shaheedi Days. With the situation continuing to intensify, the Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the case on January 2, 2025. Authorities in Punjab have thus far refrained from relocating Dallewal, fearing an escalation in tensions.