Government to Engage with Farmers on February 14; Dallewal to Accept Medical Support

Chandigarh, Jan 19 (NationPress) The Central Government is set to convene a discussion with the farmers of Punjab protesting on February 14 in Chandigarh to address their demands, effectively breaking a deadlock over restarting dialogues with the demonstrators who are seeking a legal assurance regarding the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their crops.

In light of the scheduled meeting, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a fast for 54 days as of Saturday, has consented to receive medical assistance.

Nevertheless, he has expressed that he will not conclude his indefinite fast until a legal guarantee on MSP is provided, as stated by fellow farmer leader Sukhjit Singh Hardojhande.

Dallewal will persist with his fast, refraining from any meals until the farmers' demands are acknowledged. A decision regarding the fast of 121 farmers will be made on Sunday.

The delay in scheduling talks is attributed to the model code of conduct being in effect in Delhi until February 9, which restricts any announcements, with the budget session following shortly after. This extended timeframe will also allow Dallewal to take part in the meeting.

It was emphasized that ensuring Dallewal's health is paramount to prevent the situation from escalating, as his worsening condition has sparked emotional responses among the farmers.

Reports indicated that Dallewal had experienced vomiting frequently over the past 72 hours, raising concerns for his health. In this context, farmers unanimously agreed for Dallewal to accept medical help, stating that if he refused, they would gather outside his trolley and initiate a fast.

The breakthrough in negotiations occurred after a team from the Union Agriculture Ministry, led by Joint Secretary Priya Ranjan, met with Dallewal and representatives from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, who have been leading the protest for nearly a year.

Following the announcement of the February 14 meeting, farmer leaders have encouraged Dallewal to seek medical help so he can actively participate in discussions.

The Centre's delegation also urged Dallewal to accept medical aid, enabling him to take part in the upcoming meeting scheduled at the Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration in Chandigarh at 5 p.m. on February 14.

Speaking with reporters at the Khanauri protest site, Ranjan indicated that a high-ranking delegation was dispatched by the Centre, considering Dallewal's declining health.

"We checked on his health and held discussions with the representatives of the protesting farmer organizations," he stated.

Ranjan confirmed that the meeting is set to occur in Chandigarh on February 14.

"We advised him (Dallewal) to conclude his fast and accept medical assistance to ensure his participation in the meeting," he added.