Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema visited the Khanauri Border today to meet farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is on a hunger strike against the central government, demanding justice for farmers. Minister Cheema praised Dallewal’s unwavering commitment to the farmers’ cause and expressed full solidarity with his ongoing struggle.
Cheema was accompanied by Chairman Narinder Singh Shergill, MLA Principal Budhram, Manjit Singh Bilaspuri, and Karamjit Anmol. Speaking to the media after the meeting, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “Jagjit Singh Dallewal is in high spirits, fighting with determination for the rights of the farmers of this nation.
We are deeply grateful to him for leading this crucial battle to safeguard the future of Indian farmers in the 21st century.” Reflecting on the historical farmers' movement that led to the repeal of the controversial farm laws, Cheema expressed hope for a similar outcome.
“When the farmers united in their first struggle, the Modi government was forced to bow down and repeal the black farm laws. I firmly believe that the central government will again have to relent and engage in meaningful dialogue. Solutions to such issues are always found through discussion, not stubbornness,” he said.
The finance minister strongly criticized the central government for its rigid stance, urging it to abandon its obstinacy and engage in immediate talks with farmer leaders. He also mentioned the Supreme Court's recent directive to the Punjab government regarding medical care for Dallewal.
“While we respect the judiciary’s concern, I believe the Supreme Court should direct the central government to initiate immediate dialogue with farmers instead. Such action will resolve the issue within 24 hours,” Cheema stated. The minister called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take the initiative and break the deadlock.
“The Prime Minister must respond to the farmers’ letter and engage in constructive dialogue. The Supreme Court should issue directives to the central government, and I am confident that this will compel them to accept the farmers' demands,” he asserted.
Minister Cheema reiterated the Punjab government’s unwavering support for the farming community, stating, “AAP has stood with the farmers’ struggle since day one, and we will continue to do so. Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s voice will be strongly represented, and his fight will gain even more strength.
Our Hon’ble Speaker and several cabinet ministers, along with MLAs, have also met with the protesting farmers to extend their support.”