New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday ordered the Punjab government to transfer farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike since November 26, to a makeshift hospital near the Khanauri border for continuous medical monitoring. The move comes amid growing concerns about Dallewal's health as he presses for key farmer demands, including a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops.

A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan instructed Punjab’s Advocate General, Gurminder Singh, to secure an undertaking from the state’s Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) affirming the transfer and provision of necessary medical care at the facility.

During the proceedings, the court was informed that Dallewal had undergone medical tests on Thursday, including an ECG and blood work, which showed largely stable results. However, some parameters, such as creatinine and uric acid levels, were found to be marginally elevated. Despite recommendations from doctors, Dallewal has refused medication.

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, the court emphasized that medical intervention must be prioritized. Justice Surya Kant questioned the adequacy of the current measures and noted that even if Dallewal continued his protest, it should be done under proper medical supervision. Drawing parallels with the prolonged protest of civil rights activist Irom Sharmila, the bench suggested a balanced approach to safeguard Dallewal’s health while allowing him to maintain his agitation.

The ongoing hunger strike is part of a broader movement by farmers under the banners of Samyukta Kisan Morcha and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, who have been staging demonstrations at various border points, including Shambhu and Khanauri, since mid-February. Their protests began after security barricades on the Ambala-New Delhi Highway prevented their march to the national capital.

The Supreme Court has scheduled further deliberations on the matter and reiterated the need for Dallewal to undergo regular medical check-ups. The next hearing is expected to address the progress of his transfer and his health condition.