Jind, 15 January 2025: A group of 111 farmers dressed in black crossed into Haryana at the Khanauri border on Wednesday and began a fast-unto-death to escalate their protest in support of farmer leader Jagjit Dallewal.
The farmers held a prayer ceremony before commencing the hunger strike, marking another phase of their ongoing agitation, according to media reports.
Protest leader Kaka Singh Kotra stated, “Our protest is peaceful, and we are not moving toward Delhi. We told the Haryana administration they are free to use tear gas, cane charges, or arrests, but the farmers will remain at the site.”
The group initially agreed to start the demonstration near the designated protest area but eventually initiated it on Haryana soil, he added.
Haryana Deputy Superintendent of Police Amit Bhatia confirmed discussions were ongoing with the farmers.
He said, “We are maintaining restraint and have requested farmer leaders to avoid actions that could disturb law and order.” The farmers were also informed of Section 163 of the BNSS being in effect in the area.
Despite police requests to relocate the protest, tents and blankets were arranged for the demonstrators, and heavy police deployment was visible at the Haryana border from early morning.
Medical teams and ambulances from Punjab’s health department were stationed nearby to handle any emergencies.
Meanwhile, Jagjit Dallewal’s hunger strike reached its 51st day, with farmer leaders expressing concern over his deteriorating health. Doctors reported he is now struggling to drink water, having already been surviving only on liquids.
The protestors insist that their actions are peaceful but remain resolute in their demands, stating the strike will continue despite any opposition from authorities.
