The Supreme Court on Friday, 27 Dec, criticized the Punjab government for failing to shift farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who was on a fast unto death for more than a month, to hospital despite repeated medical advice.
During the court’s Christmas and New Year vacation, a bench of justices, Surya Kant and Sudhanshu Dhulia, convened a special session, urged prompt action, and questioned the state’s dedication to ensuring the leader’s survival. “This is a contempt petition against the Punjab chief secretary and DGP for not complying with our December 20 order,” noted the bench, asking Punjab Advocate General Gurminder Singh if the state was truly concerned about Dallewal’s health and pointing out a crucial order for his hospitalization.
“Please, take it seriously. Someone’s life is at stake…the impression we get is that you have not been taking it seriously,” said the bench, expressing dissatisfaction with the state’s delay in providing Dallewal with quality medical care.
AG Gurminder Singh stated that Dallewal had been urged to seek medical assistance by a group of eight cabinet ministers. He did, however, mention that moving him to a hospital was difficult due to farmers’ strong opposition. “If there are people creating a law-and-order situation, you as a state must know how to handle it. It’s your duty,” retorted the bench, directing the state to file a compliance report within 24 hours.
The director general of police (DGP) and chief secretary of Punjab were also required to participate virtually in Saturday’s proceedings after the court accepted a contempt petition against the two high-ranking officials for failing to follow its earlier decision from December 20. On the day, the court had asked the state administration “to take necessary steps and ensure adequate medical aid, including hospitalization as per the doctors’ advice.” “The learned advocate general undertakes to submit a compliance report tomorrow by 11 am. The chief secretary and DGP shall remain present virtually,” stated the bench in its order.
Speaking on behalf of Haryana and the federal government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta warned that the Center’s involvement could make situations worse but emphasized how crucial it is to save Dallewal’s life. Responding, the bench observed: “Our orders already clarified that Mr. Dallewal can be heard virtually, and the solicitor general would also participate. His life is our primary concern.”
AG Singh once stated that any physical force could injure Dallewal and that the state administration cannot take the risk of jostling due to strong medical advice against it. To this, the bench said, “We have serious doubts about the bonafides of the farmers who are not worried about his (Dallewal’s) health and deteriorating conditions.”
The Supreme Court’s prior warnings to Punjab, notably an order from December 20 that emphasized the state’s constitutional obligation to protect Dallewal’s life, are followed by Friday’s special session.
Join our whatsapp group for Latest updates