Barcelona [Spain]: India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM), S Jaishankar, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing farmers’ concerns, acknowledging the intricacy of the issues involved.
Speaking to the Indian community in Spain, Jaishankar emphasized the government’s efforts, including raising the Minimum Support Price (MSP) to support farmers, but also acknowledged that the issue is sometimes politicized.
“Regarding the issue of farmers… this is a complex topic. The issues involved are not simple. From the government’s side, I can assure you that we discuss how to help these people in the cabinet and parliament,” Jaishankar stated.
This reassurance comes amidst the ongoing hunger strike by Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a prominent farmer leader, protesting the Central Government’s unfulfilled promises from the 2021 farmer agitation.
Concerns Over Dallewal’s Health
Dallewal, the convener of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political), has been on a fast-unto-death since November 26 at the Khanouri border, demanding a legal guarantee for MSP on crops and other promises made to farmers.
As Dallewal’s health continues to decline, concerns have been raised by both supporters and officials:
- Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh expressed worry over Dallewal’s deteriorating condition and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to initiate talks with the farmer leader.
- The Supreme Court-appointed High-Powered Committee met with Dallewal, but he refused medical assistance.
Speaking on the matter, DIG Patiala, Mandeep Singh Sidhu, confirmed that the farmer leader had declined hospitalization despite his critical health.
Supreme Court’s Stance
The Supreme Court clarified that its directives for medical aid and hospitalization for Dallewal are not intended to force him to end his hunger strike but to safeguard his health.
A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Sudhanshu Dhulia reiterated that Dallewal is free to continue his protest under medical supervision.
The ongoing hunger strike has reignited debates around farmers’ demands, particularly the legal guarantee of MSP.