Prominent Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal on Sunday formally ended his indefinite hunger strike, which he had begun on November 26 last year, as part of a sustained agitation demanding a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and other critical issues affecting the farming community. The announcement came during a massive ‘Kisan Mahapanchayat’ held at Sirhind in Fatehgarh Sahib district of Punjab, marking a significant moment in the ongoing farmers’ movement.
Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a senior figure in the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM), had been on a hunger strike for over four months to compel the central government to address longstanding farmer concerns, particularly the legalisation of MSP for crops. His decision to conclude the fast followed emotional appeals from Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu, who urged him to prioritise his health and wellbeing for the larger cause of the farming community.
While addressing the large gathering of farmers, Dallewal said, “You all have asked me to end the fast unto death. I am indebted to you for taking care of the agitation. I respect your sentiments. I accept your order.” His words reflected a deep sense of gratitude and solidarity with the movement that has seen farmers rallying across states for their rights since the conclusion of the earlier protests in 2021.
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had issued a statement expressing concern over Dallewal’s health and urged him to discontinue the fast, assuring that the central government remains committed to holding dialogue with farmer representatives. He further confirmed that talks have been scheduled for May 4 at 11 a.m. with farmer union representatives to discuss their demands.
Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu also echoed similar sentiments, noting that Dallewal’s leadership and presence are essential to the continued efforts of Punjab’s farmers and agricultural workers. “Your health is more important, and your life is precious for the people of Punjab as your leadership will always be needed for the struggle of farmers and farm labourers,” Bittu said in his appeal on Saturday. He further shared that BJP leaders and ministers had inquired about Dallewal’s condition during the Lok Sabha session and conveyed their best wishes for his recovery.
Jagjit Singh Dallewal had been hospitalised due to declining health amid his prolonged fast. Following medical treatment, he returned from the hospital with a steady recovery, and his decision to end the hunger strike was met with relief and support from fellow farmers and supporters across the country. His act of sacrifice had become a powerful symbol of protest in the farmers’ campaign for agricultural reforms and policy guarantees.
The issue of a legal guarantee on MSP remains a cornerstone of the current farmer demands. Although the government has taken several measures post the repeal of the three contentious farm laws, farmer unions argue that key promises, including MSP legalisation, compensation for deceased protestors’ families, and withdrawal of police cases, remain unfulfilled.
The May 4 meeting is now being closely watched as a decisive opportunity for constructive engagement between the Centre and farmer unions. With Dallewal’s fast now concluded, the focus shifts towards meaningful negotiation and implementation of policies that genuinely address the grievances of the agricultural community.
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