New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed the Chief Secretary of Punjab to submit a complete comparative medical report of farmers’ leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike for over 49 days.
The reports, including Dallewal’s latest vitals, are to be handed over to the Registrar (Judicial) of the Supreme Court, who will then obtain a medical opinion from the Director of AIIMS.
A bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice N.K. Singh after the State of Punjab claimed that Dallewal’s health condition was “improving” but later clarified that his vitals were “stable” rather than improving.
Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the State of Punjab, informed the bench that a medical facility had been set up just 10 meters from the protest site and that an affidavit on Dallewal’s latest vitals had been submitted. Sibal added that his parameters were currently stable.
Justice Kant expressed concern over the claim of “improving vitals” and questioned the State’s position, noting the inconsistency with earlier reports indicating deteriorating health. “How can a person’s vitals improve after fasting for more than 46 days?” Justice Kant remarked, emphasizing the need for accurate and transparent medical updates.
Sibal clarified that the statement of “improvement” was based on the findings of a Medical Board and reiterated that Dallewal’s condition is stable, not improving.
Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a cancer patient with age-related ailments, has been on a fast-unto-death since November 26 at the Khanauri border, demanding a statutory guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops.
His health has deteriorated significantly, and he is now unable to take water. Medical experts have stated that even if he ends his fast, full recovery may be difficult.
The Supreme Court was hearing a contempt petition against Punjab officials for failing to comply with an earlier Apex Court directive to shift Dallewal to a hospital.
The Court had clarified that Dallewal could continue his hunger strike under medical supervision but expressed displeasure at the State’s inaction.
On January 6, Sibal informed the Court of a “breakthrough” in negotiations between the Punjab Government and the protesting farmers, facilitated by Justice (Retired) Nawab Singh, Chairperson of a High-Powered Committee constituted by the Supreme Court.
The farmers’ organization, Samyukta Kisan Morcha, had previously refused to engage with the committee but later agreed to discussions.
Despite these developments, Dallewal has reportedly refused medical intervention unless the Central Government intervenes to address the farmers’ demands.
The issue of Dallewal’s medical condition arose during the hearing of a Special Leave Petition filed by the Haryana Government against a Punjab and Haryana High Court order directing the reopening of the Shambhu Border, which had been closed due to farmers’ protests.
The Supreme Court had earlier directed the Punjab Government to shift Dallewal to a hospital or a makeshift facility set up 700 meters from the protest site. However, resistance from farmers and concerns over potential unrest led to on-site medical support instead.
The Court now scheduled the matter for further hearing on January 29 and sought progress on both medical updates and negotiations.
