The Supreme Court on Monday urged Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, currently on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border, to persuade protesting farmers to avoid blocking highways and causing public inconvenience.

A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan disposed of a habeas corpus petition filed on behalf of Dallewal, who was removed from the protest site on November 26 and later released.

“We have seen that he has been released and he even persuaded a fellow protestor to end his fast-unto-death protest on Saturday,” the bench noted, adding that farmers’ concerns have been acknowledged and are under consideration in a pending matter, as PTI reported.

Also Read:Farmers’ Protest Traffic Advisory: March to Delhi set for today – Check traffic diversions, list of alternate routes here

While recognising the democratic right to peaceful protests, the bench emphasised the importance of avoiding disruptions. Justice Kant suggested that Dallewal encourage the protesters to hold peaceful demonstrations in compliance with the law and in a manner that does not inconvenience the public.

The bench clarified that it was not entertaining Dallewal’s plea at this stage but allowed him the liberty to approach the court later if necessary.

Also Read:Farmers’ protest march from Noida to Delhi today, know what are their key demands

Protest timeline

Jagjit Singh Dallewal began his fast-unto-death on November 26, hours after being allegedly removed by Punjab Police and taken to a Ludhiana hospital. He was discharged on November 29 and rejoined the protest at the Khanauri border.

Farmers have been demonstrating at Shambhu and Khanauri border points since February 13, accusing the Centre of failing to address their demands, which include:

  • A legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP)
  • Implementation of the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations
  • Pension for farmers and farm labourers
  • Farm debt waiver
  • Reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013
  • Compensation for families of farmers who died during the 2020-21 protests

Despite multiple attempts, the Centre has not engaged in talks with the protesters since February 18, according to the farmers.