The prominent farming leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal terminated his endless hunger strike on Sunday. Dallewal began his strike in November and conducted it through an indefinite hunger strike in order to pressure the central government into meeting farmer requests especially regarding crop MSP legalization.
Declaration at Kisan Mahapanchayat
At a ‘Kisan Mahapanchayat’ gathering in Sirhind Dallewal declared his plan to end his strike. Sirhind is found in the Fatehgarh Sahib district of Punjab.
Acknowledging Support from Farmers
The crowd urged me to terminate my hunger strike but I paid attention to their request. I thank you for enabling the movement to continue because of your backing. He declared his decision to end his fast by acknowledging their emotions and allegiance during his address to all farmers present.
Central Government’s Request
The federal ministers Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Ravneet Singh Bittu requested a stop to his hunger strike on the day prior to their request.
Beginning of the Protest
The public reaction developed after Dallewal started his hunger strike.
On November 26 Dallewal initiated his hunger strike as a senior member of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) to pressure the government about outstanding farmer demands. The medical support discussions initiated in January did not stop Dallewal from prolonging his fast up to the present day.
Ministers Urge End to Fast
Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu requested Dallewal on Saturday to end his strike because the negotiations with the Central government were currently ongoing. The chief of BKU (Ugrahan) used a video address to convey Dallewal’s vital role in Punjab society and their indispensable leadership for the ongoing farmer movement.
Concern Expressed in Parliament
During Lok Sabha the BJP leaders enquired about Dallewal’s wellbeing to express their well-wishes. The appeal originates from Punjab citizens along with the central authorities according to Bittu.
Appeal for May 4 Talks
Shivraj Singh Chouhan who is the agriculture minister made an appeal to farmer leaders to participate in the upcoming talks set for May 4.
Progress in Dialogue and Dallewal’s Recovery
A progressive dialogue takes place between farmer organizations and the government authorities. The health of Jagjit Singh Dallewal has improved as he returned from the hospital and all wish him complete recovery. The political and community representatives renew their demand for the farmer to halt his hunger strike. The discussions between the two parties will proceed at 11 am on May 4 according to the original agreement indicated by Chouhan.
