Is it Unfeasible to Dismiss the Hemavati River Water Protest?
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Synopsis
The ongoing protests against the Hemavati Express Canal Link Project in Karnataka have drawn the attention of the BJP, who insist that the government cannot suppress dissent. With farmers rallying for their rights, the political landscape is heating up as tensions rise between the government and the agricultural community.
Key Takeaways
- BJP opposes the Hemavati Project amid farmer protests.
- Legal actions against farmers spark further discontent.
- Vijayendra demands a scientific review of the project.
- Farmers assert their right to Hemavathi water.
- Political tensions rise as the government faces backlash.
Tumakuru (Karnataka), June 3 (NationPress) The Karnataka BJP has condemned the state government's decision to proceed with the Hemavati Express Canal Link Project, despite significant opposition from farmers, asserting that it is impossible to quell the ongoing protests.
In response to legal actions against leaders and farmers involved in the demonstrations against the Hemavati Express Canal Link Project, Karnataka BJP President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra and his team visited the protest site for an assessment on Tuesday.
After inspecting the canal area in Sunkapura, Gubbi, along with other BJP leaders, Vijayendra remarked, “If farmers take to the streets again, the government's foundation will tremble.”
He called for an all-party meeting to address the issue, claiming, “Farmers here believe this project lacks scientific basis. The government should engage with farmers rather than make decisions based on arrogance. Threatening and arresting farmers is unjust.”
“Any form of feudalism is unworkable. If the government continues disregarding the farmers' struggle, it's a warning,” he added.
“Should farmers protest again, the very structure of your government may be at risk. We need a scientific evaluation that includes all farmers and leaders. This is a non-partisan issue. I urge both the Chief Minister and the District In-charge Minister to reconsider their approach to avoid harming the farmers,” he advised.
Vijayendra emphasized that the Hemavathi water belongs to the people of Tumakuru, criticizing the government for suppressing protests and infringing on citizens' rights, labeling it an unforgivable act.
He highlighted that recently, 20,000 farmers had laid siege to this location.
Vijayendra noted that their visit was not politically motivated but aimed at addressing the intimidation faced by farmers and the false FIRs filed against them.
He condemned Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar's assertion that the project would continue regardless of circumstances, urging him not to treat this as a matter of pride.
He asserted that it is wrong to inflict injustice on the people of Tumakuru merely to achieve justice elsewhere. He called for a scientific review to ensure fairness for all and cautioned against underestimating the farmers' protest.
“The state government is damaging its own reputation by stifling farmers’ rights. It is attempting to quash the farmers’ protests regarding the Hemavati river water issue using police force,” he claimed.
“While one or two individuals may have thrown stones, that is not acceptable. The police are a part of our state. However, using such incidents as a pretext to target our activists and farmer leaders is a conspiracy. This will not suppress the protest,” Vijayendra asserted.
The event saw participation from the Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, MLC C.T. Ravi, MLAs B. Suresh Gowda and G.B. Jyothi Ganesh, BJP Yuva Morcha State President and MLA Dheeraj Muniraju, District President H.S. Ravishankar Hebbaka, alongside various district leaders and local dignitaries.
Point of View
It's clear that the conflict surrounding the Hemavati Express Canal Link Project raises significant questions about governance, farmers' rights, and political accountability. The situation demands a careful approach to ensure that the voices of the agricultural community are heard, fostering dialogue rather than discord.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hemavati Express Canal Link Project?
The Hemavati Express Canal Link Project is a government initiative in Karnataka aimed at enhancing irrigation and water management but has faced strong opposition from local farmers.
Why are farmers protesting against the project?
Farmers argue that the project is unscientific and threatens their rights to water resources, leading to widespread protests.
What actions have been taken against protest leaders?
Protest leaders and farmers have faced legal actions, including the filing of false FIRs, which has intensified the situation.
What is the BJP's stance on the protests?
The BJP supports the farmers' right to protest and criticizes the government for attempting to suppress dissent.
What can be expected next in this situation?
The situation could escalate further if the government does not engage in meaningful dialogue with the farmers and address their concerns.
