Supreme Court warns Punjab government over non-compliance, gives deadline to admit Dallewal to hospital

New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India on Saturday reprimanded Punjab Chief Secretary K.A.P. Sinha and Punjab Police Chief Gaurav Yadav, warning of contempt proceedings for failing to comply with its orders.

The court directed the state to ensure that farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike since November 26, is admitted to a hospital by December 31.

A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Sudhanshu Dhulia was hearing a contempt petition filed by Labh Singh of SAS Nagar (Mohali).

Singh alleged that the Punjab government had failed to implement the court’s earlier directives to provide medical assistance to Dallewal. The court had issued a notice to the state on Friday and adjourned the hearing to Saturday.

During the proceedings, the bench expressed strong displeasure, stating, “It is a case of contempt of court, and the next steps are clear.” The justices questioned the actions of the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, asking, “Why should charges not be framed against them?”

Punjab Advocate General Gurminder Singh informed the court that Dallewal was refusing to go to the hospital and that farmers present at the protest site were preventing his transfer.

Singh cautioned that forcibly moving Dallewal could lead to potential harm to both farmers and police personnel. He emphasized the need for reconciliation to avoid a confrontation, adding, “We are surrounded by challenges and are trying our best.”

The court, however, remained firm, reiterating that medical assistance must be provided to safeguard Dallewal’s life. The bench remarked, “There is an impression that you are not following our orders. We are keen to see how you comply.”

The matter will be heard next on December 31, with the court closely monitoring the Punjab government’s response.