Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a prominent farmer leader from Punjab, has ended his 123-day hunger strike, during which he was demanding the implementation of key agricultural reforms. Punjab Advocate General Gurminder Singh informed the Supreme Court about Dallewal accepting water on Friday, marking the end of his fast-unto-death that began on November 26, 2024.
The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice N Kotiswar Singh, welcomed the development and expressed relief over Dallewal’s improved condition. Justice Kant remarked, “Very good, very good… Pray for his good health. We have openly acknowledged that he is a genuine farmer leader with no political agenda, only sincere demands.”
Demands of the Protest
Dallewal had been on a hunger strike to advocate for several demands, including:
- Implementation of the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations.
- Pension for farmers and agricultural laborers.
- Farm debt waiver.
- Reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013.
- Compensation for families of farmers who died during the 2020-21 protests.
In January 2025, Dallewal agreed to accept medical aid while continuing his fast and initiated dialogue with the central government.
Reopening of Blocked Highways
The Supreme Court also acknowledged the reopening of highways at the Shambhu Border and Khanauri Border, which were blocked by protesting farmers. Justice Kant emphasized that the reopening would benefit lakhs of people. The court did not entertain a contempt petition against Punjab officials regarding non-compliance with a previous order to maintain the status quo at the Shambhu Border.
Police Action and Detentions
On March 19, Punjab Police detained several farmer leaders, including Dallewal and Sarwan Singh Pandher, and cleared the protest sites at both Shambhu and Khanauri Borders. The police dismantled temporary structures and removed trolleys and vehicles from the area, prompting allegations of excessive force.
Farmer leader Hardo Jhande mentioned that Dallewal had not consumed water since March 19 in protest against the police action and the arrest of farmers. Dallewal resumed consuming water today, signifying the end of his protest.
Court’s Observations and Further Steps
The Supreme Court praised the court-appointed committee’s efforts to resolve the issue and requested status and supplementary reports from both the committee and the Punjab Government. The contempt proceedings against Punjab Chief Secretary and DGP were dropped due to subsequent developments.
With Dallewal’s fast now over, farmer groups are expected to reassess their strategies moving forward, as the central government and states like Punjab and Haryana seem to be on the same page regarding peaceful resolutions.
