Hunger Strikes in Punjab – A Historical Overview

In recent events, Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a prominent farmer leader, has entered the 24th day of his fast unto death. His protest marks ongoing tensions regarding farmers’ rights and agricultural policies in Punjab. Dallewal’s hunger strike is not an isolated incident but part of a long tradition of hunger strikes in the region. IASPOINT explores notable historical hunger strikes in Punjab, their motivations, and their impacts.

Bhagat Singh’s Hunger Strike (1929)

Bhagat Singh, a revolutionary figure, undertook a hunger strike in 1929 at Mianwali Jail. His protest lasted 116 days and aimed to improve conditions for political prisoners. Despite his demands, including better food and facilities, the strike did not result in changes. However, it solidified Singh’s status as a martyr and symbol of resistance in India.

Master Tara Singh’s Fast (1961)

In 1961, Master Tara Singh initiated a hunger strike demanding the formation of a Punjabi-speaking state. His fast began at the Golden Temple in Amritsar and lasted 48 days. Although Prime Minister Nehru assured him of consideration, the government initially resisted. Ultimately, Punjab was bifurcated in 1966 based on language, fulfilling Singh’s demands posthumously.

Sant Fateh Singh’s Protest (1966)

Sant Fateh Singh fasted in 1966, seeking the inclusion of Chandigarh in Punjab. His fast ended after 10 days when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi promised to consider his demands. Despite his efforts, Chandigarh remained a joint capital, leading to discontent among many Punjabis.

Darshan Singh Pheruman’s Strike (1969)

Darshan Singh Pheruman, a freedom fighter, began his hunger strike in 1969, demanding the transfer of Punjabi-speaking areas from Haryana to Punjab. He was hospitalised during the strike but refused treatment, ultimately dying after 74 days. His death sparked the formation of the Shaheed Pheruman Akali Dal, although it has struggled to gain political traction.

Surat Singh Khalsa’s Long Fast (2015-2023)

Surat Singh Khalsa’s hunger strike, lasting nearly eight years, is noted as one of the longest in Punjab’s history. He aimed to secure the release of Sikh political prisoners. Despite being fed through a nasal tube, he persisted until his fast ended shortly before his 90th birthday. His struggle continues to inspire advocacy for political prisoners in Punjab.

Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s Current Fast (2024)

Dallewal’s ongoing fast, which began on November 26, 2023, is driven by demands for legal guarantees on minimum support prices and implementation of the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations. His health has become a focal point for both supporters and the Punjab government, reflecting the urgency of farmers’ issues in contemporary Punjab.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of hunger strikes on political movements in India.
2. Estimate the role of hunger strikes in shaping public policy in Punjab’s history.
3. Point out the significance of Bhagat Singh’s hunger strike in the context of India’s freedom struggle.
4. What are the socio-political implications of Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s current hunger strike? Discuss.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of hunger strikes on political movements in India.

1. Hunger strikes serve as a powerful non-violent protest method, drawing public attention to issues.
2. They create a moral high ground for the strikers, often leading to increased sympathy and support.
3. Historical instances, like those of Bhagat Singh and Master Tara Singh, have galvanized movements and influenced political negotiations.
4. However, the effectiveness can vary; some strikes result in policy changes, while others yield little to no impact.
5. Hunger strikes can also lead to martyrdom, enhancing the legacy and cause of the strikers.

2. Estimate the role of hunger strikes in shaping public policy in Punjab’s history.

1. Hunger strikes have often brought into light regional grievances, influencing the political landscape in Punjab.
2. Master Tara Singh’s and Sant Fateh Singh’s strikes contributed to the linguistic reorganization of states in India.
3. They have pressured governments to address demands related to cultural identity and rights of Punjabi-speaking populations.
4. Some hunger strikes led to temporary assurances from leaders but often resulted in delayed or inadequate policy changes.
5. Overall, hunger strikes have been instrumental in raising awareness and prompting discussions on public policy in Punjab.

3. Point out the significance of Bhagat Singh’s hunger strike in the context of India’s freedom struggle.

1. Bhagat Singh’s hunger strike became a symbol of resistance against British colonial rule and injustice in prisons.
2. His 116-day fast drew national and international attention, denoting the plight of political prisoners.
3. The strike solidified Singh’s legacy as a martyr, inspiring future generations in the freedom struggle.
4. It showcased the effectiveness of non-violent protest in mobilizing public sentiment against oppressive regimes.
5. Singh’s actions contributed to the larger narrative of Indian nationalism and the fight for independence.

4. What are the socio-political implications of Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s current hunger strike? Discuss.

1. Dallewal’s hunger strike puts stress on ongoing tensions between farmers and the government over agricultural policies.
2. It raises awareness about the demand for legal guarantees on minimum support prices, a critical issue for farmers’ livelihoods.
3. The strike has the potential to unite various farmer unions and amplify their collective voice in political discourse.
4. Health concerns surrounding Dallewal’s fast attract media attention, putting pressure on the government to engage with farmers.
5. Ultimately, the outcome of this hunger strike may set a precedent for future farmer protests and negotiations in Punjab.