Sugarcane Farmers Protest Intensifies in North Karnataka
Sugarcane farmers in Belagavi, North Karnataka, escalated their agitation by targeting Minister Shivanand Patil. During the protest demanding higher sugarcane prices, farmers allegedly threw slippers at the Minister’s car as he was leaving the demonstration site.
Background of the Protest
This demonstration is part of an ongoing eight-day agitation by sugarcane growers demanding better prices for their crop. Farmer unions have warned of further escalation if upcoming talks do not lead to effective solutions.
Minister Appeals for Calm
Addressing protesters in Belagavi, Minister Shivanand Patil called for restraint amid concerns that unions might block National Highways.
“I am here to make an appeal, not to escalate the situation. The power to fix sugarcane prices does not lie with the state government — it is under the jurisdiction of the Central Government," he said. "The Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) is set by the Centre."
“The Union Minister for Sugar, who is also from our state, has not yet taken any initiative. The authority and responsibility to resolve this issue rest with the Central Government."
Upcoming Meeting With Sugar Mill Owners
Minister Patil also shared that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has convened a meeting with sugar mill owners across Karnataka on Friday, where a “final decision” about the issue is expected.
Summary: The sugarcane farmers’ protest in North Karnataka intensified as clashes targeted the Minister, who urged calm and pointed to the Central Government's role in price decisions, with a crucial meeting planned soon.