Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, 70, has been on a hunger strike since November 26, protesting at the Khanauri border to press the Centre for a legal guarantee on minimum support price (MSP) and other farmer demands. As his hunger strike entered its 29th day, Dallewal made an emotional appeal for unity among farmers across the country to strengthen their movement.
Speaking in a frail voice from a special stage due to his deteriorating health, Dallewal expressed gratitude to his supporters. “We have to win this battle, and it can only be achieved if the whole country fights together,” he said, urging Punjab’s “younger brother Haryana” and other states to fight with resolve.
Health Concerns Escalate
Doctors monitoring Dallewal’s condition have issued grave warnings, stating that he is at risk of cardiac arrest and multi-organ failure. “He is hemodynamically unstable and needs ICU admission. His condition is critical,” a doctor said.
Despite his precarious health, Dallewal remains determined. In his brief speech, he emphasized the need for perseverance, stating, “Either we win, or we die, but we must not retreat.”
Farmers’ Protest Intensifies
Farmers under the banners of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have been protesting at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points since February 13 after their march to Delhi was blocked by security forces. Efforts to march to Delhi in December were repeatedly stopped by authorities in Haryana.
Planned Actions
To increase pressure on the government, farmer leaders are planning to meet President Droupadi Murmu in early January. A rally highlighting farmers’ issues is scheduled for January 9 in Punjab’s Moga.
Leaders from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha have criticized the Punjab and central governments for their “indifferent attitude,” stating that immediate intervention is needed to address Dallewal’s critical health condition and the farmers’ demands.
