Supreme Court to hear habeas corpus plea against Punjab government over Dallewal’s health

New Delhi: The Supreme Court is set to hear a habeas corpus petition on January 6 against the Punjab Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) for allegedly failing to comply with its directives to provide medical assistance to farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal.

Dallewal, 70, has been on a fast-unto-death since November 26 at the Khanauri border, demanding a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and other farmer-centric reforms.

The apex court had earlier criticized the Punjab government for not ensuring Dallewal’s hospitalisation despite its December 20 order.

The court had directed state officials and doctors to take responsibility for Dallewal’s medical care, even suggesting he could be treated at a temporary hospital 700 meters from the protest site.

Expressing concern over the government’s inaction and the opposition from some farmer leaders, the court had questioned the intent of those opposing Dallewal’s hospitalisation.

It also admonished state officials and some farmers for making “irresponsible statements” in the media regarding Dallewal’s health and efforts to end his fast.

The case highlights the ongoing tensions between the government and farmer groups pushing for legal reforms, with Dallewal’s protest drawing significant attention to their demands.