Should Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Withdraw Police Cases Against Hemavati Canal Project Protestors?
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Synopsis
Union Minister V. Somanna has urged Karnataka's CM to drop charges against protestors of the Hemavati Express Link Canal Project. With tension escalating in Tumakuru, this appeal reflects the mounting concerns of local farmers over water rights and governance. Will the government heed the call for dialogue?
Key Takeaways
- Union Minister V. Somanna calls for the withdrawal of police cases against protestors.
- Farmers in Tumakuru fear losing water rights due to the canal project.
- The government has filed FIRs against over 100 individuals involved in the protests.
- A call for an all-party meeting has been issued by the BJP.
- The situation in Tumakuru remains tense amid ongoing protests.
Bengaluru, June 4 (NationPress) Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti and Railways, V. Somanna, recently addressed a letter to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, urging him to revoke the cases against protestors, elected officials, and spiritual leaders who opposed the Hemavati Express Link Canal Project.
Somanna emphasized the need for a special meeting with Tumakuru region’s elected representatives, confirming his participation.
He warned that implementing the Hemavati Express Link Canal Project would deprive farmers in the Tumakuru area of their water rights, advocating that the project should be suspended.
"I had previously raised concerns with the government regarding this project; however, it remains unresolved, which is regrettable," he remarked.
Somanna pointed out that the Hemavati Express Link Canal Project has caused significant unrest in Tumakuru. Instead of addressing these concerns, he accused the Karnataka government of trying to stifle dissent and create fear among farmers, their leaders, and seers.
He mentioned that Bengaluru Rural BJP MP, C.N. Manjunath, has also expressed his worries regarding the situation.
Somanna urged CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM and Water Resources Minister Shivakumar to organize a meeting with local representatives to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of the project.
He proposed inviting experts from both sides—those in favor and those against the initiative—to participate in the discussion.
Despite local opposition, the government is determined to proceed with the project, having filed 13 FIRs against over 100 individuals, including BJP MLA from Tumakuru Rural, Suresh Gowda, BJP MLA from Tumakuru city, Jyothi Ganesh, Turuvekere JD(S) MLA, M.T. Krishnappa, and protesting seers.
The project work has been temporarily halted due to a recent protest that escalated into violence, threatening local law and order.
The BJP is calling for an all-party meeting, giving the Karnataka government a one-month ultimatum to suspend the project.
Home Minister Parameshwara, hailing from Tumakuru district, noted that tensions in the region remain high.
Point of View
The ongoing situation in Karnataka regarding the Hemavati Canal Project underscores the importance of dialogue and democratic engagement. It is essential for authorities to listen to the voices of local communities and address their concerns responsibly. The call for discussions among stakeholders is a step towards achieving a balanced resolution.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hemavati Express Link Canal Project?
The Hemavati Express Link Canal Project is a proposed infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing water supply in the region, but it has faced significant opposition from local farmers concerned about water rights.
Who is V. Somanna?
V. Somanna is the Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti and Railways in India, representing the interests of water resources and infrastructure development.
Why are locals protesting against the project?
Locals are protesting because they fear that the project will adversely affect their access to water, crucial for farming and sustaining their livelihoods.
What has the Karnataka government done in response to protests?
The Karnataka government has filed multiple FIRs against protestors and has indicated its intention to continue with the canal project despite local opposition.
What is the current status of the project?
The project work has been temporarily halted due to violent protests, and the situation remains tense in the Tumakuru district.
