The Supreme Court will hear on January 6 the case regarding medical assistance for farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is on an indefinite hunger strike demanding Minimum Support Price (MSP) and other related issues.
During the hearing, the Advocate General, representing the Punjab government, sought more time from the court. The court, however, expressed displeasure over the Punjab government’s response and reprimanded its attitude toward the matter.
The court directed the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) of the Punjab government to file a compliance report regarding the issue. Justice Suryakant, during the hearing, questioned the Punjab government, asking, “Have you ever informed the farmers about the purpose of the committee we have formed?”
The bench expressed frustration with the lack of reconciliation from the government and criticized the so-called farmer leaders for making irresponsible statements.
Reprimand for the Punjab Government’s Lack of Cooperation
The court further criticized the Punjab government, saying that its approach lacked a conciliatory attitude. The Advocate General responded by stating that the state was investigating the issue and requested more time, assuring the court that government officers were on the ground. However, Justice Suryakant made it clear, stating, “If the officer is there, we hope our message has reached them.”
The court emphasized that all parties needed to work together for the well-being of the people involved, especially Dallewal. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the central government, noted that the primary concern was the health of the individual while assuring the court of the central government’s attention to the welfare of farmers.
Justice Suryakant reminded the Advocate General that the media was exacerbating the situation by making deliberate statements, and the court’s primary concern was not to end the hunger strike but to ensure Dallewal’s safety.
Previous Criticism for Delayed Medical Aid
This case follows strong criticism from the Supreme Court in the previous hearing when it condemned the Punjab government for not providing medical assistance to Dallewal. The court had specifically rebuked the authorities for not taking Dallewal to the hospital, despite the urgency of his health condition. It also remarked that agitators who blocked Dallewal’s hospital transfer could be charged with inciting suicide.
The Punjab government had argued that it faced significant opposition from the agitating farmers, which prevented them from taking Dallewal to the hospital.
In response, the court reiterated its December 20 order, instructing the Punjab government, Chief Secretary, and DGP to follow the Supreme Court’s directions at all costs. The court is currently hearing a contempt petition in this matter.
Court’s Concern for Dallewal’s Health
Throughout the hearings, the Supreme Court has remained focused on the health and safety of Jagjit Singh Dallewal, reiterating its concern for his well-being while highlighting the need for cooperation from both the Punjab government and the farmers.
The court emphasized the importance of a non-confrontational approach and called for respectful dialogue in the ongoing situation.
As the case continues, the Punjab government is under scrutiny for its handling of the matter, with the court making it clear that failure to comply with its orders could lead to further consequences.
The upcoming hearing on January 6 will focus on the Punjab government’s compliance with the Supreme Court’s instructions regarding medical assistance for Dallewal.
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