Sirhind, April 6: Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a key figure in the farmers’ movement, ended his 131-day hunger strike on Saturday following a collective decision by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) during a Mahapanchayat held at Sirhind’s grain market in Fatehgarh Sahib.
The decision came after widespread discussions among farmer leaders. “Though the hunger strike has ended, our fight for the remaining demands — especially a legal guarantee for MSP — is far from over,” Dallewal said. “We will protest again if necessary, and next time it will be an even larger movement.”
The hunger strike, which began on November 26, 2024, started in Dallewal village and became a rallying point for farmers across Punjab. Leaders from various organizations participated in the Mahapanchayat where the announcement was made.
Dallewal’s decision follows an appeal by Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who urged him to end the fast in a social media post on Friday. “Talks between the Government of India and farmer representatives are ongoing. We will meet the leaders again on May 4 as scheduled,” the minister had said.
Farmer leaders signaled that the movement is far from over. “In the coming days, we will organize large gatherings across Punjab and the country to spread awareness about the ongoing struggle,” a SKM leader said, adding that the marches at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders would continue.
Dallewal, who recently returned from hospital care, received widespread support during his fast. Farmer groups reiterated their commitment to mobilizing again if demands are not met through talks.
