Farmer leader Dallewal not in illegal detention, says HC, disposes of habeas corpus plea

Hearing the plea, Justice Manisha Batra noted that the state had submitted an affidavit stating that Dallewal was admitted to Park Hospital in Patiala of his own will, considering his deteriorating health due to an indefinite hunger strike since November 16, 2024. The state further clarified that he was free to leave at any time.

The petitioner’s counsel, including advocates Gurmohan Preet Singh, Angrej Singh, and Kanwarjit Singh, argued that Dallewal’s family was being prevented from meeting him. In response, Additional Advocate General Deepender Singh assured the court that the state had no objection to family visits. The court then directed the government to facilitate meetings between Dallewal and his relatives without interference, while ensuring adherence to hospital protocols.

Observing that Dallewal had been hospitalised following Supreme Court directions for his medical care and had not expressed any desire to be discharged, Justice Batra ruled that there was no basis to claim illegal detention. “The alleged detenue is said to be free to go home after seeking discharge from the hospital. In such circumstances, it cannot be said that the alleged detenue is in illegal confinement of the respondents,” the order stated.

The court disposed of the petition but directed authorities to ensure that Dallewal’s family, friends, and associates could meet him freely while following hospital guidelines.