Punjab Farmer Leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal Vows to Continue Fast-Unto-Death After Hospital Discharge

Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a prominent farmer leader from Punjab, has committed to a fast-unto-death until the farmers' demands are met. After being allegedly removed from the Khanauri border and taken to a hospital in Ludhiana, he reiterated his stance upon discharge. Sarwan Singh Pandher, another senior leader of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha non-political, welcomed him after his release.

Dallewal accused the Punjab government of detaining him under police custody at the Centre's direction. He stated that his hospitalisation was not for medical reasons but was a form of detention. "Had I been admitted to a hospital for any check-up, even mediapersons could have met me. But I was essentially under police custody," he said. He also mentioned being denied access to his mobile phone during this period.

Farmers' Demands and Protests

The farmers are demanding several concessions from the Centre, including a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and farm loan waivers. Dallewal announced his return to Khanauri to continue his fast-unto-death protest until these demands are addressed. "We are fighting the battle to save our future," he declared.

On Tuesday, Dallewal was about to start his fast when police took him from the Khanauri border point to the hospital for a check-up. Sarwan Singh Pandher criticised the Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government for this action, alleging that Dallewal was forcibly removed by the police.

Ongoing Agitation and Support

Sukhjit Singh Hardojhande, another farmer leader, has been on a fast-unto-death since Tuesday after Dallewal's removal. His protest entered its fourth day on Friday. Hardojhande expressed his willingness to sacrifice his life for the farmers' cause.

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha non-political and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have planned to escalate their protests by initiating fasts-unto-death. Farmers have been stationed at Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 after their march to Delhi was halted by security forces.

Call for Dialogue with Centre

The protesting farmers have accused the Centre of ignoring their demands, claiming no discussions have occurred since February 18. They have called for talks with the Union government to address their issues. A march towards Delhi is scheduled for December 6 as part of their ongoing agitation.

Police justified their actions by expressing concerns over Dallewal's age and health due to his fast-unto-death call. Despite this, farmer leaders remain determined in their fight for their rights and demands.