Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s condition has taken a severe turn as his hunger strike enters its 24th day. Doctors attending to him described his health as critical after he fainted for 8-10 minutes at the Khanauri border protest site.
Dr. Abhiraj, a member of the medical team from the 5 Rivers Heart Association, warned that Dallewal’s life is “hanging by a thread,” highlighting the risks of cardiac arrest and multi-organ failure. The 70-year-old cancer patient, who has been refusing sustenance, is demanding the Centre’s acceptance of farmers’ demands, including a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) on crops.
Dr. Abhiraj explained that Dallewal’s refusal to consume food for the past 24 days has caused a critical decline in his health. His blood pressure dropped significantly, and an electrolyte imbalance has increased the risk of a cardiac arrest. Furthermore, the levels of ketones in his body are dangerously high, further compromising his health.
Farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohar reported that Dallewal fainted after attempting to bathe, experiencing dizziness and vomiting. Despite his fragile condition, Dallewal briefly participated in a Supreme Court hearing via video call on Thursday afternoon. The Court urged the Punjab government to convince Dallewal to undergo a medical examination, expressing concern over the lack of medical intervention.
The ongoing hunger strike has reignited debates around the MSP issue. A parliamentary panel has recently recommended a legal framework for MSP to prevent farmer suicides and improve their financial security. Meanwhile, political leaders have visited the protest site to show their support for Dallewal and the broader farmers’ movement.
Akali leader Balwinder Singh Bhundar called on the Centre to address the farmers’ demands, while Simranjit Singh Mann, leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar), also inquired about Dallewal’s health. Congress leader and former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda reiterated the need for urgent government action to resolve farmers’ concerns.
Dallewal’s hunger strike has brought renewed attention to the MSP issue, with calls for unity among farmer organizations and immediate dialogue with the government.
