BATHINDA: The Supreme Court directed the Punjab authorities to make efforts to convince fasting farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal to go to hospital for one week, take the required treatment, and then he can resume the fast.
Someone else can continue the agitation in the meantime when Dallewal is hospitalised. The court sought medical reports of the fasting leader by Friday afternoon when the matter will be taken up again.
Earlier, during the resumed hearing on Thursday, the Punjab AG stated that a lot was managed overnight. The senior officers talked to Jagjit Singh Dallewal. Initially, there was resistance, but now medical experts are assisting him on site.
Even a place near the fasting venue was transformed into a hospital, and all facilities have been kept there for emergencies. However, there is a problem in shifting him as there are 3,000-4,000 people gathered there who are resisting his transfer.
They have wielded trolleys together so that no vehicle can pass. Physically lifting him is not possible. A formal directive was issued that every facility required should be taken to him, wherever he is. In case of physical confrontation, there can be casualties.
At this, the court observed that farmers and leaders have never entered into physical confrontation. They are sitting peacefully. These words are concocted by the officers.
The AG stated that Dallewal wanted an audience with the court, and the court observed there is no difficulty in interacting with him. However, the court first wanted him to be provided with immediate medical aid. Why is that priority not being followed up?
The court asked the AG to show his blood test reports. His condition of cancer, CT scan, nothing was done. What kind of certification are the officers giving by stating he is fine? Those saying the fasting leader is fine are officers, not the doctors. A person over 70 years of age who is sitting on a hunger strike for over 20 days, who is this doctor who says he is alright without tests? He can continue with the hunger strike, but subject to medical supervision, and the supervision can be there even without consuming any food or liquid. Tell the state machinery to be alive to their constitutional responsibilities.
