A 70-year-old farmer leader in India, Jagjit Singh Dallewal, has been on hunger strike for over 40 days, drawing attention to the ongoing struggles of farmers and their demands from the federal government. Dallewal’s steadfast protest has become a symbol of resilience and determination, though his deteriorating health has raised serious concerns among supporters and medical professionals alike. Jagjit Singh Dallewal is a prominent figure in the Indian farmers’ movement, advocating for the rights and welfare of the agricultural community. His hunger strike is part of a broader campaign aimed at pressuring the government to meet the demands of protesting farmers. These demands include better implementation of Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for crops, resolution of farmer debts, and more robust protections against corporate exploitation in the agriculture sector.

Dallewal’s protest began as an effort to reignite momentum within the farmers’ movement, which gained global attention during the mass protests against three controversial farm laws introduced in 2020. Although the laws were repealed in 2021 following widespread opposition, farmers’ unions argue that many systemic issues remain unresolved. Reports indicate that Dallewal’s health has significantly declined over the course of his hunger strike. Doctors attending to him have noted that he is “unable to speak” and is showing signs of severe physical weakness. Despite these warnings, Dallewal and his supporters have refused medical intervention, emphasizing the gravity of their cause. The farmer leader’s refusal of aid reflects his commitment to the movement, but it also underscores the risks associated with such prolonged protests.

The hunger strike has drawn mixed reactions from various quarters. Farmer unions across India have expressed solidarity with Dallewal, organizing marches and sit-ins to amplify his message. Many supporters view his protest as a wake-up call for the government to address the deep-rooted challenges faced by the agricultural sector, which remains the backbone of India’s economy but is plagued by low incomes, debt crises, and inadequate infrastructure. On the other hand, critics argue that hunger strikes can endanger lives without guaranteeing tangible outcomes. Government officials have urged Dallewal to end his fast and engage in dialogue, stating that constructive discussions are a more effective way to resolve grievances. However, farmers’ groups remain skeptical of the government’s willingness to implement meaningful reforms, citing unmet promises from previous negotiations.

The plight of India’s farmers has been a contentious issue for decades. While the government has introduced several welfare schemes, such as crop insurance programs and subsidies, many farmers argue that these measures are insufficient and fail to address the root causes of their struggles. The disconnect between policy measures and on-ground realities has fueled discontent, with hunger strikes and mass protests emerging as desperate cries for attention. As Dallewal’s hunger strike enters its seventh week, the spotlight remains firmly on the federal government’s response. Will it engage with farmers’ leaders to find sustainable solutions, or will it allow the movement to escalate further? For now, Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s unwavering protest serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing India’s farmers and the urgent need for reforms in the sector.