Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Tuesday, 20 October announced that the state government would convene separate meetings with sugarcane farmers and sugar factory owners to resolve a simmering pricing dispute that has triggered street protests across north Karnataka. Shivakumar also said he would engage with the concerned Union Minister to work toward an amicable resolution.

Background: Protests and the Padayatra

Sugarcane farmers in north Karnataka had launched a 7-day padayatra to press their demands, but temporarily suspended it on 19 October after Union Minister Pralhad Joshi assured them that a high-level committee would examine their concerns. Earlier, Shivakumar travelled from Bengaluru to Belagavi to personally meet the protesters and hold talks. He has also proposed leading an all-party delegation to Delhi to take the matter up at the federal level.

What the Chief Minister Said

Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar said he had already held discussions with farmer representatives and was working to fix a mutually convenient date for the joint meeting, factoring in the schedules of farmers, factory owners, and elected representatives. He added that the timing would also account for the upcoming Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations.

'We have to resolve the issue peacefully and cordially, as it concerns people's livelihoods. If farmers grow sugarcane, factories can operate. Only when sugar factories function successfully can farmers get good prices for their produce. We have to work collectively, and I do not want to burden anyone. This is everyone's responsibility, and we must address it together,' Shivakumar said.

The Chief Minister confirmed that ministers from the region, those handling relevant departments, the Union Minister representing the area, and local MPs and MLAs would all be invited to the discussions.

Drought Relief and Other Pending Issues

On the question of a proposed meeting with Union Ministers in Delhi regarding drought relief, Shivakumar said he had sought an appointment but was yet to receive confirmation. Separately, he said funds would be provided to every gram panchayat for drinking water-related requirements.

Local Body Elections on the Horizon

Shivakumar also addressed preparations for upcoming local body elections, noting that voter lists were expected to be provided by 27 October. He said elections to panchayats and municipalities were expected to be completed within two to three days once the process begins, and that the government had to remain ready as the Election Commission could announce the schedule at any time, in accordance with the Supreme Court's directions.

The resolution of the sugarcane pricing standoff will be closely watched by farming communities across the state, particularly as the harvest season approaches and factory operations depend on a steady supply of cane.