A farmer from Ballari district has alleged that his stock of Byadagi chillies was fraudulently sold from a cold storage facility in Haveri district without his knowledge, leaving him facing heavy losses.
Background of the Incident
Mahadevappa, a farmer from Siruguppa taluk, had cultivated a large quantity of Byadagi chillies. In 2023, when market prices were low, he decided to hold back his produce in the hope of fetching better rates later. With the assistance of a middleman, Nagappa Hadagali, he stored 363 bags of chillies in a cold storage facility linked to the Byadagi chilli market. The decision was taken to wait for prices to improve.
Discovery of Fraud
However, when rates picked up and Mahadevappa returned to sell his produce, he allegedly found that the entire stock had gone missing. The family said neither the chillies nor the sale proceeds were handed over to the farmer. According to Mahadevappa's family members, chillies worth nearly Rs 50 lakh, stored in his name, were sold without his consent. They also alleged that original documents related to the stock were taken away.
Allegations Against Agency
Tippeswami Chilli Agency had earlier given the farmer a small amount, claiming it was for labour expenses, the family said. Following the incident, Mahadevappa lodged a complaint at the Byadagi police station, seeking action against those responsible.
Police Investigation Underway
Haveri superintendent of police Yashoda Vantagodi confirmed that a complaint has been registered and that the documents submitted by the farmer are being verified. She said an investigation is under way and assured strict action against those found guilty.
