Why Did the Sugarcane Protest in Karnataka Turn Violent?
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Synopsis
Farmers in Karnataka's Bagalkot district escalated their protest for a higher sugarcane price, leading to violence and the destruction of numerous tractors. The situation highlights the ongoing tension between farmers and factory owners, emphasizing the urgent need for governmental intervention.
Key Takeaways
- Farmers demanded a higher price for sugarcane.
- Protests turned violent with tractors being set ablaze.
- Government fixed the price at Rs 3,300 per tonne.
- Union Minister criticized the government's response.
- Calls for immediate government intervention.
Bagalkot, Nov 13 (NationPress) A protest initiated by farmers demanding a price of Rs 3,500 per tonne for sugarcane from factory owners escalated into violence on Thursday, leading to the destruction of over 50 tractors loaded with sugarcane in Bagalkot district, Karnataka.
The incident occurred at Sanganakatti Cross near Mahalingapura town, not far from Mudhol, where it is estimated that thousands of tonnes of sugarcane were consumed by flames.
The state government had previously set the sugarcane price at Rs 3,300 per tonne after discussions with both farmers and factory proprietors.
According to early reports, protesting farmers attempted to blockade the sugar factory near Sydapura, close to Mudhol town along the Mahalingapura–Nippani road. At one point, a faction of protesters ignited the tractors stacked in front of the factory.
More than 200 tractors were stationed outside the facility, and further information regarding this event is still pending.
The farmers from Mudhol, who opposed the government-mandated rate of Rs 3,300 per tonne, had been staging protests for over a week.
On Thursday, they declared a complete shutdown of Mudhol town, insisting that only the sugar factory owners should engage in discussions and firmly demanded a price of Rs 3,500 per tonne of sugarcane.
Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H. D. Kumaraswamy, commented on the situation, stating that while the government quickly addressed the farmers' protests in Belagavi, it has failed to tackle the broader crisis impacting sugarcane cultivators statewide.
He urged the government to abandon its opportunistic stance of “desire for rice, affection for relatives.”
Immediate intervention from the government is essential to resolve this crisis.
The Leader of the Opposition, R. Ashoka, stated that the dire situation of the sugarcane growers in the state is a direct consequence of the negligence of the Congress government.
“Siddaramaiah should convene meetings with sugar mill owners and farmer representatives,” he remarked.
He emphasized that the government should take the issues faced by sugarcane farmers seriously and provide suitable compensation for the losses incurred due to the recent incident.
“The BJP will stand in solidarity with the farmers in this struggle, providing full support,” he added.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach the ongoing unrest among sugarcane farmers with sensitivity and a commitment to factual reporting. The plight of these farmers warrants attention, and it is essential to explore the implications of their demands and the government's response to this crisis. A balanced perspective will foster an understanding of the agricultural challenges faced by producers.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for the protests in Karnataka?
Farmers protested to demand a higher price of Rs 3,500 per tonne for sugarcane, as they opposed the government's set price of Rs 3,300 per tonne.
How many tractors were set on fire during the protests?
More than 50 tractors loaded with sugarcane were torched during the protests.
What action did the farmers take on the day of the protest?
The farmers called for a complete shutdown of Mudhol town and attempted to block the sugar factory near Sydapura.
Who commented on the government's handling of the situation?
Union Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy criticized the government for its inadequate response to the broader crisis affecting sugarcane growers.
What is the significance of this protest?
This protest highlights the ongoing struggles faced by sugarcane farmers and emphasizes the need for government intervention to resolve their grievances.
