The Supreme Court of India has expressed strong criticism regarding the Punjab government’s handling of its earlier directive for the hospitalization of Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a farmer representative who has been on a prolonged hunger strike for over a month without medical attention. During a hearing, Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan clarified that the Court is not attempting to forcefully end Dallewal’s protest; rather, their primary concern is to ensure his health and life are preserved. They emphasized that he could continue his protest from a hospital environment, asserting the importance of safeguarding his well-being before addressing other issues.
Justice Kant criticized the Punjab government and its representatives for making what he termed “irresponsible statements,” suggesting that certain farmer representatives are intentionally escalating tensions. He indicated that if the government feels unable to manage the situation effectively, the Court may consider issuing appropriate constitutional directives.
The Supreme Court has instructed the chief secretary and director general of police of Punjab to submit affidavits stating their compliance with the Court’s orders by Monday. On that day, the Court will also revisit Dallewal’s health situation.
In addition, the Court heard a public interest litigation (PIL) calling for the Union government to fulfill its commitment to engage in discussions concerning a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for farmers, a promise made during the protests of 2021. The Court has requested that Solicitor General Tushar Mehta review the PIL and obtain guidance from the Centre regarding the relief sought.
The Union agriculture ministry previously established a committee, which includes representatives from both state and central governments as well as farmer groups, tasked with ensuring that MSP is provided to farmers. This committee was formed based on assurances made in December 2021, helping to conclude the farmers’ protests. The Supreme Court has asked both the Centre and the committee to submit their insights on the PIL within a ten-day timeframe.
