Farmer unity meet uncertain amid Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s health crisis

Bathinda: Uncertainty surrounds the proposed unity meeting between the Sanyukt Kisan Morcha, SKM (Non-Political), and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM), scheduled for Feb 12, as farmer unions remain preoccupied with ongoing protests and discussions with govt officials.
The SKM, which awaits confirmation from the SKM (NP) and KMM, had planned the meeting in Chandigarh following previous rounds of discussions on Jan 13 and 18, but since the two latter forums will be engaged in large-scale farmer assemblies (kisan mahapanchyats) from Feb 11 to 13 and are scheduled for negotiations with Union ministers on Feb 14, they are unlikely to postpone those meetings.
Differing priorities
The SKM, which finalised the Feb 12 date in its national general house meeting on Jan 24, is yet to receive a response despite sending a reminder to the other forums on Feb 5. SKM unionist Raminder Patiala said: "We will hold an internal meeting on Monday to decide the next course of action."
Meanwhile, KMM coordinator Sarvan Singh Pandher indicated that discussions regarding the meeting would be on Sunday night. He said: "We are focused on mobilising farmers for protests marking the anniversary of our movement on Feb 13. We will inform the SKM of our decision."
Health concerns
Amid the political maneuvering, farmer unionist Jagjit Singh Dallewal's hunger strike entered its 76th day on Sunday.
Fellow farmer unionist Abhimanyu Kohad said Dallewal had been unable to receive medical aid for six days due to blocked veins, making intravenous treatment difficult. Doctors attempted to administer fluids through his feet but were unsuccessful.
Farmer unionists like Kaka Singh Kotda continue outreach efforts in villages to rally support for the coming kisan mahapanchayats. The unity meeting, if held, could mark a significant moment for consolidating various farmer factions ahead of further negotiations with the govt.