Politics · India Bureau
Sugarcane farmers' bandh disrupts traffic in Karnataka's Belagavi district
Farmers protesting agricultural grievances blocked multiple roads across Belagavi on Wednesday, though the agitation remained largely contained to the district. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar urged compliance with an agreement reached during recent negotiations.
LSN India ·
Sugarcane farmers in Karnataka's Belagavi district enforced a bandh on Wednesday, erecting blockades at several key locations to press their demands. The protest saw roads remain congested as farmers demonstrated against issues affecting their livelihoods, including pricing and procurement concerns.
The agitation remained geographically limited, with neighbouring districts largely unaffected by the disruption. Authorities reported that essential services continued to function and the situation was brought under control through coordinated responses.
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar made an appeal for restraint, asking stakeholders to honour the understanding reached during a government meeting held on October 26. The Chief Minister's intervention underscored the administration's commitment to resolving farmer grievances through dialogue rather than prolonged confrontation.
The bandh reflects ongoing tensions between sugarcane cultivators and state authorities over agricultural policy. The government had previously engaged with farmer representatives to address their concerns, with the October 26 meeting representing a formal attempt to find common ground on pricing, supply chain issues, and support mechanisms for the sector.