The Supreme Court of India was informed by the Punjab government that farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been leading protests at the Khanauri border, has accepted medical assistance. Following discussions with a central delegation, he has been shifted to a makeshift hospital 50 meters from the protest site.
The development, described as a “positive step” by a bench headed by Justice Surya Kant, was accompanied by an update that over 110 other protesting farmers on hunger strike had also broken their fast. Punjab Advocate General Gurminder Singh further informed the court that farmers have agreed to participate in a dialogue with the Centre and other authorities on February 14, 2025, in Chandigarh.
The primary demands of the farmers for the February 14 talks include:
- Enactment of a Law for Minimum Support Price (MSP): A legally binding framework to ensure MSP for crops to protect farmers’ income and stabilize agricultural markets.
- Withdrawal of Cases Against Protesters: Dropping all legal cases filed against farmers during previous protests.
- Debt Relief for Farmers: Comprehensive measures to alleviate the debt burden on farmers, including waivers and better credit terms.
- Implementation of Crop Insurance Schemes: Ensuring access to reliable insurance to safeguard against losses due to natural calamities and other risks.
- Fair Procurement Policies: A transparent and inclusive mechanism for crop procurement to eliminate exploitation by middlemen.
To ensure his effective participation in the talks, the bench advised Mr. Dallewal to arrive in Chandigarh two days prior and consult specialists at PGI Chandigarh regarding his health.
In light of the progress, the Supreme Court put contempt proceedings against Punjab’s Chief Secretary and Director General of Police on hold and excused their personal appearance via videoconference. These proceedings were initiated after they failed to convince Mr. Dallewal to seek medical aid despite previous court directives.
Farmers, under Mr. Dallewal’s leadership, have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders since February 2024, after their march to Delhi was blocked. Their demands have remained consistent, emphasizing legal guarantees and systemic reforms to secure their livelihoods.
Justice Kant expressed hope that all stakeholders would engage constructively during the scheduled talks to make decisions benefiting the national interest. The court will review the case again at the end of February.
