Chandigarh, December 30, 2024: Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s hunger strike entered its 35th day on Monday, as the 70-year-old continues his fast to death over farmers’ demands from the central government. Despite his deteriorating health, Dallewal rejected the Punjab government’s appeal on December 29 to undergo treatment.
Officials Reach Protest Site
A police team led by former ADGP Jaskaran Singh visited the protest site at the Khanori border today, accompanied by Patiala Range DIG Mandeep Sidhu and Patiala SSP Nanak Singh.
The officials are under mounting pressure to resolve the issue ahead of a Supreme Court deadline.
Supreme Court Warning
The Supreme Court has mandated that the Punjab government shift Dallewal to a temporary hospital by December 31, warning that failure to comply could result in contempt proceedings against the Chief Secretary and DGP. A review of the Punjab government’s steps in the matter is scheduled for December 31.
Fears of Forced Eviction
Meanwhile, Dallewal expressed concerns last night that the state government might use force to remove him from the protest site. The situation follows the Supreme Court’s sharp criticism of the Punjab government on December 28 for failing to hospitalize the ailing farmer leader.
As Dallewal’s condition worsens, the standoff continues, leaving his supporters and the administration awaiting a resolution.