Karnataka Sugarcane Farmers Stage Indefinite Protest in Mysuru Over Unpaid Dues
In a significant demonstration of agrarian distress, activists from the Karnataka State Sugarcane Growers Association held a vigorous protest outside the office of the Deputy Commissioner in Mysuru on Tuesday. The primary demand was for the district administration to issue directives to Bannari Amman Sugar Mills, located in Nanjangud taluk, to release long-pending arrears owed to sugarcane growers.
Heated Confrontation with Police
The protest escalated into a tense situation when farmers attempted to enter the Deputy Commissioner's office through the main gate in Siddhartha Nagar. Police personnel intervened to prevent them from picketing the premises, leading to a heated argument between the two sides. Authorities maintained a firm stance to uphold order, while farmers expressed frustration over the delay in receiving their dues.
Promises from District Administration
During a meeting convened with farm leaders and representatives of sugar mills, the Deputy Commissioner assured that steps would be taken to ensure the release of all pending arrears. This includes an additional incentive of Rs 100 per tonne that has been outstanding. However, farmers pointed out that neither the sugar mill management nor the district administration has effectively enforced the payment of this Rs 100 incentive, highlighting systemic failures in the process.
Broader Demands and Future Actions
Beyond the immediate issue of arrears, the protesters urged the district administration to relax CIBIL score requirements for the distribution of agricultural loans to farmers. They emphasized that stringent credit rules are exacerbating financial hardships in the farming community. The association has made it clear that they will not withdraw their protest until all demands are met, vowing to continue their indefinite stir outside the Deputy Commissioner's office.
Key Points of the Protest:
- Demand for release of pending sugarcane arrears from Bannari Amman Sugar Mills.
- Inclusion of Rs 100 per tonne incentive in the arrears payment.
- Call for relaxation of CIBIL score rules to facilitate easier access to loans for farmers.
- Assurance from the Deputy Commissioner to address the issues, yet skepticism remains among protesters.
- Commitment to an indefinite protest until concrete actions are taken.
The situation underscores ongoing challenges in Karnataka's agricultural sector, with farmers seeking timely payments and supportive policies to sustain their livelihoods.
