Supreme Court seeks medical report on farmer leader Dallewal, emphasizes safety over agitation

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday called for a detailed medical report on farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike for the past 23 days at the Khanauri border on the Punjab-Haryana border. The apex court urged the Punjab government to persuade the 70-year-old leader to seek medical assistance, stressing that ensuring his safety does not imply an end to the farmers’ agitation.

A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan questioned the Punjab government’s failure to conduct a medical examination of Dallewal, despite his critical condition. The court highlighted that civil rights activist Irom Sharmila had continued her decade-long protest under medical supervision, suggesting Dallewal could do the same.

The bench expressed frustration over the Punjab government’s claims that Dallewal’s health was fine without proper medical tests. Justice Bhuyan remarked, “No one should take this lightly. We are deeply concerned about Dallewal’s health. How can a 73-75-year-old, reportedly suffering from serious ailments, survive a 21-day hunger strike without adequate medical evaluation? Bring the doctor who says he is fine before us.”

Describing Dallewal as a “leader of the people,” the court asked the Punjab government to engage with him and report back on his condition. The matter has been adjourned for further hearing on December 20.