New Delhi, December 21, 2024: The Supreme Court on Friday instructed the Punjab Government to take necessary steps to safeguard the health of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been fasting since November 26 over MSP. Expressing concern over his deteriorating health, the Court left the decision of moving him to a makeshift hospital, located 700 meters from the protest site, to the state’s discretion.
“It is entirely the responsibility of the Punjab Government to ensure Dallewal’s health remains stable. If hospitalization is required, they must determine whether he can be transferred to the makeshift hospital,” stated a bench led by Justice Surya Kant, with Justice Ujjal Bhuyan also in attendance.
The Court further directed the Punjab Chief Secretary and the head of the medical board overseeing Dallewal’s health to submit an updated medical report by January 2, 2025. The report should detail the steps taken to ensure no harm comes to Dallewal. The bench also clarified that its previous orders should continue to be followed, allowing the parties to approach the Court for any additional instructions if needed.
The order came after Punjab Advocate General Gurminder Singh informed the bench that authorities were prepared to move Dallewal to the makeshift hospital, provided he agreed to the transfer. “We are ready to shift him as long as there is no resistance, as we do not want to risk causing any further physical strain due to his fragile condition,” Singh said, noting the concern about Dallewal’s age and health.
On behalf of the Haryana Government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta urged the Court to order the immediate transfer of Dallewal to a hospital, citing concerns over his deteriorating health. Singh, however, warned that any forceful action might complicate the situation on the ground.
Dallewal has been on an indefinite hunger strike at the Khanauri border, located between Punjab and Haryana, since November 26, demanding the fulfillment of farmers’ demands. The bench had previously criticized the Punjab Government for not conducting timely medical assessments of Dallewal.
During Friday’s two-session hearing, Singh reported that medical tests, including an ECG and blood work, had been conducted on Thursday. “The ECG is normal, and the blood parameters are largely within limits,” Singh explained. He added that Dallewal’s uric acid levels were elevated and required medication, but he had declined treatment. He also noted that Dallewal’s PSA levels were slightly high but not alarming.
The Court has now directed the Punjab authorities to file an affidavit from the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police (DGP), confirming that Dallewal will be moved to the makeshift hospital. The case is scheduled for further review later in the day.
