Why Are Farmers and BJP Protesting Against the Karnataka Government Over the Hemavathi Link Canal Project?
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Synopsis
Thousands of farmers and BJP leaders unite in Karnataka to oppose the Hemavathi Link Canal Project, asserting their water rights. Amidst detentions and heightened tensions, the escalating conflict reflects deep concerns over resource allocation and local governance. Will this protest change the government's plans?
Key Takeaways
- Massive protest against Hemavathi Link Canal Project in Karnataka.
- Over 100 detained, including local BJP leaders.
- Tensions remain high as heavy security is deployed in affected areas.
- Farmers assert their rights against potential water diversion.
- Government defends project, pointing to Technical Committee's backing.
Bengaluru, May 31 (NationPress) In a significant demonstration, thousands of farmers along with BJP leaders in Karnataka orchestrated a large-scale protest on Saturday against the initiation of work on the contentious Hemavathi River Link Canal Project located near Gubbi town in Tumakuru district. This comes despite substantial resistance from local farmers.
Law enforcement officials detained over 100 demonstrators, which included Tumakuru Rural BJP MLA Suresh Gowda, Tumakuru City BJP MLA Jyothi Ganesh, BJP District President Ravishankar, and farmer leader Chandrashekar.
With religious leaders, their followers, numerous farmers, activists, and BJP supporters joining the protest against the Congress-led administration's decision to advance with the project, tensions escalated, prompting the district administration to temporarily suspend the work.
Ongoing unrest lingers in Tumakuru district, with heavy police presence in Gubbi, Nittur, and nearby areas.
Protesters contend that the Congress-led government is trying to reroute Tumakuru district's water allocation to the Ramanagara area, asserting they will not permit their rightful water share to be taken.
Earlier, despite the district administration imposing prohibitory orders within a 10-kilometre radius of Tumakuru, the protestors blocked highways in Gubbi, deflated police vehicle tires meant for their detention, and some even attempted to overturn those vehicles. Even with police efforts, the demonstrators, outnumbering enforcement officers, began marching towards the canal project site.
Farmers in the area are against the Link Canal Project, which is intended to channel water from the Hemavathi River to Ramanagara.
Reports indicate that Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who is also the Water Resources Minister, is leading the initiative.
In response to the unfolding events, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah mentioned that any concerns regarding the Hemavathi River Canal project in Tumakuru should be addressed by state Home Minister G. Parameshwara.
At a media briefing at Vidhana Soudha regarding the BJP's protest, Tumakuru District In-Charge Minister G. Parameshwara stated that the work on the Hemavathi Express Canal Project had begun following recommendations from a Technical Committee.
"A decision was made to construct an express canal in Tumakuru, with the project launched at an estimated cost of approximately Rs 1,500 crore. The moment work commenced, BJP leaders began their opposition. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar conducted several meetings involving MPs and MLAs," Home Minister Parameshwara remarked.
He added, "They requested the establishment of a Technical Committee. After its formation, the committee provided a report indicating the project could proceed. Work commenced based on that report. If the report had shown any issues with the Link Canal, we wouldn't have moved forward. Now, BJP's opposition appears to be politically motivated."
Meanwhile, Tumakuru Rural BJP MLA Suresh Gowda has called for an all-party discussion.
"Residents of our district fear that their water share is being redirected to Ramanagara. Local Congress legislators are unable to voice opposition and are urging us to lead the protest," Gowda stated.
"This situation is a death sentence for the district. Thousands have come forward voluntarily to halt the project," he emphasized.
He criticized the project as unscientific, noting they have protested for two years, raising concerns in the Assembly and organizing marches.
"No one should jeopardize farmers' livelihoods. If the government persists with the project, the water will have to flow over my dead body," declared MLA Gowda.
"Today's events are merely a preview. We have given the government a one-month ultimatum. If they attempt to resume work, we will launch an intense protest, even risking our lives by jumping into the canal alongside farmers," he warned.
Point of View
The ongoing protest against the Hemavathi Link Canal Project underscores the complex dynamics between state-led initiatives and local farmer rights. It highlights the importance of addressing community concerns in development projects, suggesting a need for transparent dialogue and sustainable practices in water resource management.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hemavathi Link Canal Project?
The Hemavathi Link Canal Project aims to divert water from the Hemavathi River to the Ramanagara region, which has faced significant opposition from local farmers.
Why are farmers protesting?
Farmers are protesting because they believe the project will divert their rightful share of water to another region, adversely affecting their livelihoods.
What actions have been taken by the police during the protests?
Police have detained over 100 protesters, including local BJP leaders, amid escalating tensions during the demonstrations.
What is the government's stance on the project?
The government, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, insists that the project is necessary and was initiated based on a Technical Committee's recommendations.
What are the potential consequences of the protest?
If the protests continue to escalate, there may be significant delays to the project and potential changes in governmental policy regarding water resource management.
