'Somebody's life is at stake': SC issues notice to Punjab govt on medical aid for farmer leader Dallewal

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday raised concerns about the health and safety of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike.

The apex court directed the Punjab government to take necessary steps to provide him with medical assistance. A vacation bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia issued a notice to the Punjab government on a contempt petition filed against its chief secretary for allegedly failing to comply with a previous court order on providing medical aid to Dallewal.

"If there is a law and order situation, you have to deal with it with iron hands. Somebody's life is at stake. You need to take it seriously. Medical aid has to be given and the impression is that you are not following it," the bench said.

"We have serious doubts on the farmers who are creating obstacles to provide him aid. Let the state take all measures to ensure that he is given the aid," Justice Kant added.

The court also instructed the state government to submit a compliance report by Saturday, when the matter will be heard again.

Dallewal has been on an indefinite fast at the Khanauri border since November 26, demanding that the Centre address farmers' issues, including a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP) for crops.

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