UPDATE: Punjab govt confirms Dallewal ready for talks; SC grants 3-day extension for hospital admission

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Punjab government has stated that farmer leader Jagjeet Dallewal is ready for talks, and the Supreme Court has granted the state a three-day extension to admit Dallewal to the hospital. This decision was made during a hearing on Tuesday by the bench of Justice Suryakant and Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia.

The Punjab government explained that traffic was disrupted due to the Punjab Bandh on Monday. Additionally, a mediator submitted an application stating that Dallewal is willing to engage in talks if the union intervenes. Based on this, the Supreme Court approved the Punjab government's request for more time. The next hearing in this contempt case is scheduled for January 2. Previously, on December 28, the Supreme Court had given the Punjab government time until December 31. In a related development, the Supreme Court of India granted the Punjab government an extension until January 2, 2024, to ensure that Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike since November 26, 2024, receives medical assistance. This comes after a previous directive requiring the state to provide Dallewal with the necessary medical care due to concerns about his deteriorating health.

Despite multiple efforts by Punjab government officials to convince Dallewal to accept medical aid, he has refused, fearing it might weaken the farmers' movement. The situation is further complicated by other protesting farmers gathered around him, making it difficult for authorities to intervene. The Supreme Court has expressed serious concerns about Dallewal's health and warned that obstructing medical aid could result in criminal charges. The next hearing is scheduled for January 2, where the court will review the state's compliance with its orders regarding Dallewal's medical care.