111 farmers to begin indefinite fast at Khanauri border today

The indefinite fast by farm leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal entered its 50th day today even as his health deteriorated alarmingly. A team of doctors reached the Khanauri border and checked his blood pressure and sugar levels. They also conducted tests, including blood sampling, ultrasound.

Avtar Singh Dhillon, a member of the Five Rivers Heart Association, an NGO providing medical treatment to the farm leader, said, “For the past 48 hours, he has been unable to retain water and is throwing up. His body is inching towards multiple organ failure. This is an extremely critical situation.”

In solidarity with Dallewal, farm leaders have announced a new phase of protests. A jatha (group) of 111 farmers will start their indefinite fast at 2 pm tomorrow. The group will march to the first police barricade at Dhabi Gujran near the Khanauri border before commencing the fast.

Farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohar stated that the 111 farmers, predominantly middle-aged, would wear black attire as a symbol of protest. “This hunger strike will be conducted under the supervision of an SKM (Non-Political) leader,” he said.

State BJP chief Sunil Jakhar’s comment on MSP drew criticism from farmer unions. Jakhar had argued that a legal MSP guarantee might not be favourable for Punjab farmers. He said the current MSP regime was tailor-made for Punjab and Haryana farmers.

Farmer unions flayed Jakhar, accusing BJP leaders of trying to mislead people. “Instead of holding meaningful discussions with protesting farmers, some BJP leaders are trying to divert attention from the core issue,” said farm leader Kaka Singh Kotra.

Meanwhile, Congress MP Dharamvira Gandhi extended support to Dallewal, expressing grave concern over the government’s lack of response.

“As both a physician and a public representative, I am deeply troubled by the government’s insensitivity,” said Gandhi. “Are they waiting for Dallewal to die? Any sensible government would have initiated talks and taken steps towards implementing a legal guarantee for MSP. His body reserves are exhausted, and soon his brain may not receive enough glucose, leading to hallucinations. This is not just a protest, it is a grim reminder of the government’s stubbornness,” said the MP.