Indefinite Fast to Continue Until Farmers’ Demands Are Met: Dallewal

CHANDIGARH, Jan 28: Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a prominent farmer leader from Punjab, declared on Tuesday that his fast-unto-death will continue indefinitely until the Central Government addresses the farmers’ demands, which notably include a legal guarantee for a minimum support price (MSP) on crops.
During a press briefing at the protest site in Khanauri, Dallewal emphasized the necessity of MSP for farmers across the country, asserting that it is also essential in Punjab to protect the region’s underground water reserves. Following a recent invitation from a government delegation for a meeting on February 14 in Chandigarh, Dallewal has begun accepting medical assistance but remains committed to his fast.
As the convener of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political), Dallewal has been on an indefinite hunger strike at the Khanauri border since November 26 of last year, advocating for various demands, including the vital legal guarantee for MSP.
Expressing gratitude to the farmers and laborers who have supported the ongoing protest, Dallewal mentioned that he sought medical help upon recommendation from both the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha after the government’s invitation was extended. “I have taken medical assistance only. Following that, the vomiting has ceased. My fast continues and will persist until our demands are met,” he stated.
Regarding the upcoming meeting on February 14, Dallewal expressed that while many encourage him to participate, he lacks the physical strength to do so. “Health issues prevent me from attending,” he said.
He also made a call for farmers to gather at the Khanauri protest site on February 12, stating, “If everyone joins, I will gain strength and, if fate allows, I might attend the meeting to present our points. I urge you all to come in large numbers on February 12, as the sight of you gives me energy.”
The high-level government delegation, led by Priya Ranjan, joint secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, had invited the SKM (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha for dialogue on January 18, scheduled to take place on February 14 in Chandigarh.
Since February 13 of last year, farmers affiliated with SKM (Non-Political) and KMM have been camped at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana after authorities denied their march to Delhi to advocate for their demands, including MSP for crops. (Agencies)