A 57-year-old farmer, Ranjodh Singh, who attempted suicide during the ongoing farmers’ protest at the Shambhu border on December 14, tragically passed away at the Government Rajindra Hospital in Patiala on Wednesday. Singh, a resident of Ratanheri village in Ludhiana district, reportedly took the drastic step due to the deteriorating health of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike at the Khanauri border since November 26.
Farmer leaders have claimed that Singh’s distress was triggered by Dallewal’s 23-day fast-unto-death, which he has continued despite government efforts to intervene. Dallewal, part of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, has been fasting to demand a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops.
Singh was an active participant in the farmers’ protest at the Shambhu border, where farmers have been staging demonstrations since February 13, following security blockades on their marches to Delhi. Singh is survived by his parents, wife, daughter, and son.
In addition to the ongoing protests, farmers held a ‘rail roko’ march at 52 locations across Punjab, blocking railway tracks for three hours as part of their continued resistance.
The Supreme Court on Wednesday reaffirmed its support for farmers, stating that its doors are always open to any suggestions or demands. Meanwhile, Dallewal’s condition remains critical, with doctors recommending indoor admission for better care.
The incident underscores the emotional and physical toll the prolonged protests have had on the farmers involved. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to support services such as Sumaitri (011-23389090) and Sneha Foundation (044-24640050).
