The issue concerning farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal in Amritsar, Punjab, and his hunger strike has captured the attention of the Supreme Court. On Friday, a special bench of the Supreme Court heard a contempt petition against the Punjab government for failing to provide adequate medical assistance to Dallewal. Justices Surya Kant and Sudhanshu Dhulia expressed severe displeasure at the Punjab government's stance.
The Punjab government conveyed to the Supreme Court that the protestors at the sit-in site are opposing the relocation of farmer leader Dallewal. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta remarked that no group should hold the leader hostage and insisted that Dallewal must receive medical assistance under all circumstances.
Read more: Medical team heading to examine Dallewal at Khauri Border met with an accident, injuring four doctors.
Supreme Court takes a strong stance
The Supreme Court declared that no compromise can be made with human life. The state government was directed to take stringent measures should law and order situations deteriorate. The court clarified that no obstacles would be tolerated in providing medical aid to the farmer leader. The SC expressed doubts about the intentions of those hindering Dallewal's medical care.
Preparing for further hearings
The Supreme Court instructed the Punjab government to file an affidavit detailing Dallewal's health and the steps taken for his welfare. Highlighting the life-threatening situation, the court stressed that medical help must be provided to the farmer leader without fail.
Read more: 'End the hunger strike, Dallewal': Sunil Jakhar accuses politicization of the farmer protest.
On the 31st day of his indefinite hunger strike, the court instructed the Punjab government to submit an affidavit about Dallewal's health and treatment. Justice Surya Kant mentioned that they would conduct an online meeting with Jagjit Singh Dallewal during tomorrow's hearing and prioritize his life above all. The Supreme Court also asked the state's Chief Secretary and DGP to attend the online hearing.
