The Supreme Court of India has directed its appointed high-powered committee to engage with protesting farmers along the Punjab-Haryana border to persuade them to suspend their agitation or relocate from highways temporarily. This comes amidst heightened tensions and the deteriorating health of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike for 18 days demanding legalisation of Minimum Support Prices (MSP).
Key Developments:
- Constitutional Right to Protest: The court emphasized that while the farmers’ right to protest is protected, it should be exercised peacefully in line with Gandhian principles, without disrupting public order or causing economic hardships.
- Economic Impact: Punjab’s advocate general highlighted the severe financial implications of highway blockades, particularly on the state’s economy.
- Deteriorating Health of Dallewal: The court instructed the Punjab and central governments to ensure round-the-clock medical assistance for Dallewal while respecting his decision to continue the hunger strike unless life-saving intervention is necessary.
- Committee’s Role: The court-appointed panel, chaired by retired justice Nawab Singh, was tasked with mediating between the farmers and the government. The panel has been directed to submit progress updates through affidavits.
- MSP and Systemic Agricultural Issues: The protesting farmers, under banners like Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political), are demanding legalisation of MSP and reforms addressing rising debts, climate challenges, and sustainable cropping practices.
- Grim Agrarian Report: The committee’s November report highlighted systemic issues, including over ₹1.5 lakh crore in institutional debt in Punjab and Haryana, alongside significant non-institutional debt. It advocated for policy reforms to prevent recurring protests and build farmer confidence.
- Upcoming Protest Plans: Farmers have scheduled another march to Delhi on December 14, adding urgency to the need for dialogue and resolution.
Court’s Stance:
The Supreme Court has refrained from enforcing impractical directives, focusing instead on peaceful resolution and addressing the root causes of the protests. It underscored the importance of dialogue and expressed concern over public safety and economic stability while ensuring that Dallewal’s health remains a priority.