Diljit Dosanjh faces Farmers' Backlash over meeting PM Modi: 'What about Sambhu Border?'

Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh’s New Year’s Day meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi has drawn criticism from farmer leaders, as reported by The Times of India. Diljit, who had supported the farmers' protests in 2020, described the meeting as a “fantastic start” to the year, while PM Modi praised his rise to international fame from humble beginnings. However, farmer leaders questioned his commitment to their cause.

A leader at the Sambhu Border expressed disappointment, saying, “If Diljit truly cared about farmers, he would have joined us in solidarity, listened to our concerns, and stood by his earlier statements. Instead, meeting PM Modi raises doubts about his intentions.”

Diljit’s support in 2020

During the farmers’ protests in 2020, Diljit actively advocated for their demands, urging the government to resolve the issues. He posted on Instagram: “25 September. We all will stand with the farmer community. Everyone defending the bill should talk to the farmers.” His involvement earned him widespread admiration among protestors. Despite the government repealing the controversial farm laws in 2021, farmers’ organizations continue to demand legal guarantees for minimum support prices (MSP). Jagjit Singh Dallewal, convener of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political), is currently on a fast-unto-death at the Khanouri border to push for these demands. Thousands of farmers have gathered at the site in support. The Supreme Court has instructed the Punjab government to ensure Dallewal’s health and comply with orders regarding his hospitalisation, though Dallewal has refused medical assistance.

ALSO READ: Diljit Dosanjh draws legal trouble for promoting alcohol at Ludhiana Concert

ALSO READ: Farmers’ Punjab Bandh concludes peacefully in Amritsar

The meeting with PM Modi

During their meeting, PM Modi lauded Diljit’s achievements, stating, “When a boy from a small village shines on the global stage, it feels amazing. Your name, Diljit, truly signifies winning people’s hearts.” Diljit expressed admiration for the Prime Minister’s journey, saying, “Behind the position of Prime Minister is a mother, a son, and a human being. That touches the heart.”
Farmer leaders remain skeptical of Diljit’s priorities. They point out that while Dallewal’s fast-unto-death gathers massive support, Diljit chose to meet PM Modi instead of visiting the protest site. Farmers emphasized that their movement is ongoing and their demands remain unresolved, urging greater solidarity from public figures like Diljit.