On New Year’s Day, a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh sparked strong reactions from protesting farmers, who questioned the artist’s commitment to their cause. While Dosanjh called the interaction a “fantastic start” to the year, Modi praised his inspiring journey from modest beginnings to global fame.

Farmer leaders, however, expressed disappointment over Dosanjh’s recent actions, suggesting they conflicted with his earlier vocal support for their movement. In 2020, the singer had actively joined the farmers’ protests at the Singhu border, where he urged the government to address their concerns and stood in solidarity with the farmers.

Irritated with the meeting was a frontier leader of Shambu, who thus spoke: “Had Diljit really supported the farmers, he would have come here at Sambhu Border along with Dallewal Ji, listened to us, and restated his old stance. Instead, meeting the Prime Minister raises doubts about his intentions”. The Farmers made clear that they would not stop their movement until their demands were fulfilled.

At this time Jagjit Dallewal is going on a hunger strike for 38 days demanding the legalisation of laws so that the Minimum Support Price (MSP) could be legalised. Thousands of farmers reached the Khanauri site bringing their tractor-trolleys in great numbers for support. Even then, the Punjab government is trying to persuade Dallewal to accept medical assistance but he has turned it down. The Supreme Court has since taken note and directed the Punjab government to watch over his health while ensuring compliance with its orders directing hospitalization.