In a bid to address the ongoing highway blockade by farmers at the Punjab-Haryana border, the Supreme Court has directed its appointed high-powered committee to mediate with the protesters. The committee is tasked with persuading farmers to either temporarily suspend their agitation or relocate their protest sites away from major highways, such as the crucial Khanauri-Shambhu stretch, which has been causing economic disruptions in Punjab.
A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan reaffirmed the farmers’ constitutional right to protest but emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and public order. Stressing Gandhian principles, the court advised against the use of force and called for dialogue to resolve the deadlock. The bench also highlighted the deteriorating health of Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a senior farmer leader on a hunger strike since November 26, demanding a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP). It urged authorities to provide 24/7 medical assistance to safeguard his life.
Punjab’s Advocate General Gurminder Singh informed the court that the blockade is significantly impacting the state’s finances. The bench acknowledged the farmers’ grievances but underscored the need to resolve the root causes behind the protest.
The court-appointed panel, led by retired High Court judge Justice Nawab Singh, assured prompt action and pledged to submit a progress report. Justice Singh emphasized that resolving the farmers’ demands, particularly the legal guarantee for MSP, is crucial for restoring confidence among the agricultural community.
The farmers, rallying under the banners of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, have been protesting since February for MSP legalisation and other agrarian reforms.
The Supreme Court highlighted systemic issues plaguing Indian agriculture, including rising debt, climate challenges, and unsustainable farming practices, as outlined in a recent committee report.
Farmers have scheduled a fresh march to Delhi on December 14, increasing the urgency for a peaceful resolution.
The court reiterated the need for collaborative efforts between the Centre, Punjab government, and farmer leaders to address the impasse constructively.
