New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday (December 19) asked the Punjab government to convince farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is sitting on a fast-unto-death protest at the Khanauri border for over 20 days, to undergo health examination.
A bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan, while taking note of statement of doctors on Dalleal’s health saying his health condition was alright without conducting any basic tests, pulled up the Punjab government for not conducting medical tests on the farmer leader,
Have you conducted Dallewal’s blood tests, ECG test and required investigation, apex court asked Punjab
“A over 70-year-old person is on hunger strike for past 21 days and suffering from various ailments and his health is alright. How it can be? Have you conducted his blood tests, ECG test and required investigation?” the bench asked.
The bench asked the Punjab advocate general to persuade the farmer leader to take medical treatment for a week at least saying others could continue with the protest.
Punjab advocate general sought a day’s time to convince Dallewal
The Punjab advocate general sought a day’s time from the court to convince the farmer leader and convey the sentiments of the court for ensuring his well-being.
The bench, during the hearing also said that the “Court will talk to him (Dallewal) once we satisfy ourselves that he is safe.”
The bench has posted the matter for December 20.
What did the apex court say earlier?
The apex court had on Wednesday expressed its concerns on the deteriorating health condition of Dallewal and had directed the Punjab government to ensure that medical aid is provided to him forthwith as per the advice of the doctor.
The top court, during the hearing on Wednesday, had also said that the doors of the court are always open to any suggestion or demand by farmers directly or through their authorized representative.
The apex court earlier, while expressing its concerns on Dallewal’s health, had directed the Punjab government to provide adequate, immediate medical aid to Dallewal without forcing him to break fast.
