Will Karnataka BJP's Farmers' Protest at Suvarna Soudha Create Change?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Massive Farmers' Protest: Scheduled for December 9 at Suvarna Soudha, Belagavi.
- High Turnout Expected: Organizers predict 20,000 to 25,000 participants.
- Criticism of Congress Government: BJP highlights failures in addressing farmer issues.
- Focus on Key Issues: Discussions will include sugarcane, maize, and irrigation projects.
- Political Implications: The protest could influence Karnataka's political landscape.
Belagavi (Karnataka), Dec 8 (NationPress) - The Karnataka BJP President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra has declared that farmers are set to stage a significant protest on Tuesday (December 9) morning, planning to gherao the Suvarna Soudha in Belagavi.
During a press briefing after visiting the protest site at Malini City Ground on Monday, Vijayendra stated that MLAs from the Belagavi district, along with MLCs and farmers from Belagavi and neighboring regions, will take part in this demonstration.
He indicated that the participation could reach anywhere between 20,000 to 25,000 individuals.
Vijayendra went on to criticize the Congress government's policies, accusing them of being anti-farmer and likened their inaction to that of a blind and deaf person.
He remarked, "They shift the blame to the Centre regarding compensation issues," highlighting the lack of accountability in the state government, especially concerning the unresolved issues faced by sugarcane growers. Despite the Centre setting a minimum support price of Rs 2,400 for maize, farmers are forced to sell it for only Rs 1,500-1,600 due to the government's failure to timely open procurement centers.
He also mentioned that discussions would focus on the concerns of cotton and tur dal farmers.
Vijayendra pointed out that the internal discord regarding the Chief Minister's position is adversely affecting the state. He criticized the government for continuously blaming the Centre to obscure its failures.
He expressed concern for various farmers, including sugarcane, maize, paddy, and tur dal cultivators, who are suffering due to the government's neglect.
Vijayendra noted that the Congress party had pledged to eliminate unemployment and create jobs for youth during the elections, which has not been fulfilled.
He confirmed that topics like the challenges faced by weavers and the state's development would be addressed in the upcoming assembly session. "We will also discuss irrigation projects in North Karnataka," he added.
When asked about the leadership of Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, he claimed they are adept at distracting attention by blaming the Centre at every turn to mask the state government's shortcomings.
He accused them of staging this drama to hide their failures, assuring that all issues would be brought up in the assembly.
Opposition Leader R. Ashoka affirmed their commitment to support the protesting farmers.
"The BJP and former CM B. S. Yediyurappa have consistently prioritized farmers' welfare. The BJP's roots are in protests, and we will amplify our voice in the assembly," he stated.
Among those present were leaders such as Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, P. Rajeev, C. T. Ravi, Vithal Halagekar, Abhay Patil, Anil Benake, Sanjay Patil, Sharannu Tallikeri, Geeta Sutar, Subhash Patil, M. B. Jirali, and Aravind Patil.