Khanauri, January 11: Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, whose fast-unto-death entered its 47th day, has called on the Punjab BJP to directly seek intervention from Prime Minister Narendra Modi instead of involving the Akal Takht.
In a video message shared on Friday, Dallewal addressed reports that BJP leaders had approached the Akal Takht Jathedar, urging him to instruct Dallewal to end his hunger strike. “BJP leaders are misguided. Instead of seeking help from Akal Takht, they should reach out to the Prime Minister’s Office to resolve the matter,” Dallewal stated.
The farmer leader also suggested that BJP officials meet Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, who has expressed concerns over farmers’ issues, along with Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Home Minister Amit Shah. “My fast is driven by the demands of farmers. I will break it only when these demands are accepted by the Centre,” he asserted.
Dallewal’s health condition has raised significant concern. A high-level medical team led by Principal Secretary (Health) Kumar Rahul visited the protest site in Khanauri on Thursday to examine him. Deputy Commissioner Preeti Yadav and SSP Nanak Singh accompanied the medical delegation.
After meeting farmer leaders Baldev Singh Sirsa, Abhimanyu Kohar, and Kaka Singh Kotra, the team examined Dallewal inside his glass cubicle. Medical staff conducted blood tests and an abdominal ultrasound, but the report—originally due Friday—was delayed. Dr. Jagpalinder Singh, Civil Surgeon of Patiala, stated the findings would be released Saturday.
A medical team from Rajindra Medical College and Mata Kaushalya Hospital in Patiala remains stationed at the site to monitor Dallewal’s condition. Two advanced life support ambulances are available 24/7, alongside a temporary hospital equipped with emergency medical facilities.
Dallewal began his protest on November 26, initially being detained by police and hospitalized at Dayanand Medical College, Ludhiana. Following pressure from farmer unions, he was released and returned to the Khanauri border, where his hunger strike resumed.
The site has since turned into a heavily guarded zone, with tractor-trailers welded together to secure the perimeter. Over 700 volunteers maintain a night vigil, ensuring Dallewal’s safety and uninterrupted continuation of his protest.
Farmer unions continue to demand action from the central government, as the stalemate has sparked growing support for Dallewal’s cause amid concerns over his deteriorating health.
