What Led to the Burning of Sugarcane-Laden Tractors in Bagalkot?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The recent incident of sugarcane-laden tractors being burned in Bagalkot has raised serious concerns about farmers' protests in Karnataka. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has vowed to investigate the matter, insisting on accountability for those involved. This escalating tension highlights the ongoing struggle over sugarcane pricing and its implications for the agricultural community.
Key Takeaways
- Tractors laden with sugarcane were burned in Bagalkot during a farmers' protest.
- Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah has ordered an investigation into the incident.
- The state government has set the sugarcane price at Rs 3,300 per tonne.
- Farmers are demanding a higher price of Rs 3,500 per tonne.
- Violent protests have raised serious concerns regarding farmer welfare.
Bengaluru, Nov 14 (NationPress) Following the destructive act of burning sugarcane-laden tractors in Bagalkot district, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has declared an investigation into the incident, promising that those responsible will face consequences. This announcement came during a press interaction after paying tribute to former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru on his birth anniversary at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru.
When questioned about the violent protest by sugarcane farmers, CM Siddaramaiah mentioned, "Farmers have indicated they are not to blame. Therefore, I have directed that a thorough investigation be conducted, and action will be taken against anyone found guilty."
The state government has set the sugarcane price at Rs 3,300 per tonne, urging Mudhol farmers to accept this and discontinue their protests, he noted.
According to the Chief Minister, the majority of sugarcane farmers statewide have agreed to the government’s pricing.
The farmers' protests, demanding Rs 3,500 per tonne from sugar factories, escalated into violence last night, with reports indicating that over 50 tractors filled with sugarcane were burned in Bagalkot district.
The incident occurred at Sanganakatti Cross, near Mahalingapura town, adjacent to Mudhol, leading to the destruction of thousands of tonnes of sugarcane.
The government established the sugarcane price after discussions with both farmers and factory owners.
Preliminary reports suggest that the protesting farmers attempted to blockade a sugar factory near Sydapura on the Mahalingapura–Nippani road. During the chaos, a group of protesters ignited the tractors that were positioned outside the factory.
Over 200 tractors were stationed in front of the facility.
Farmers from Mudhol, who have been against the government-mandated price of Rs 3,300 per tonne, have been protesting for the last week.
On Thursday, they declared a complete shutdown of Mudhol town, asserting that only sugar factory owners should engage in discussions while maintaining their demand for Rs 3,500 per tonne.
This situation has sparked a significant controversy within the state.
Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H. D. Kumaraswamy, commented, "The plight of sugarcane farmers has worsened. Witnessing sugarcane-laden tractors ablaze at the Mudhol sugar factory has left me deeply disturbed. This incident starkly illustrates the failure of the Congress-led Karnataka government."
Point of View
It is imperative to approach this incident with a balanced perspective. The escalating tensions between sugarcane farmers and the government reflect broader issues of agricultural policy and farmer welfare in India. The responsibility for the violence must be investigated thoroughly, and both sides should engage in constructive dialogue to prevent further escalation.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the burning of tractors in Bagalkot?
The tractors were set on fire during a violent protest by farmers demanding a higher price for sugarcane than the government-set rate.
What is the government's stance on sugarcane pricing?
The Karnataka government has fixed the sugarcane price at Rs 3,300 per tonne.
How has the Chief Minister responded to the incident?
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has ordered an investigation and promised action against those responsible for the violence.
What are the farmers demanding?
Farmers are demanding Rs 3,500 per tonne from sugar factories.
What has been the impact of this incident on the farmers' protests?
The incident has intensified the protests, leading to calls for accountability and further negotiations with sugar factory owners.
