In a significant political development, former Karnataka Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Jagadish Shettar has openly extended his support to the ongoing farmers' agitation demanding better prices for sugarcane and prompt clearance of outstanding dues.
Political Backing for Agrarian Demands
Shettar, addressing the media in Hubballi, expressed solidarity with the farming community's struggle, emphasizing that sugarcane cultivators deserve remunerative prices for their produce. "Our farmers have been facing immense difficulties due to delayed payments and inadequate pricing," the veteran politician stated.
Key Issues Highlighted
The former CM outlined several critical concerns affecting the agricultural sector:
- Persistent delays in sugarcane payments by sugar factories
- Inadequate pricing that fails to cover production costs
- Growing financial distress among farming communities
- Need for immediate government intervention
Call for Government Action
Shettar urged both state and central governments to address the pressing issues faced by sugarcane growers on priority basis. "The farming community cannot wait indefinitely for solutions to their genuine problems," he emphasized during his interaction with reporters.
Regional Impact and Political Implications
The support from a prominent BJP leader comes at a crucial time when farmers in northern Karnataka districts have been intensifying their protests. This endorsement is particularly significant given Shettar's substantial political influence in the region and his previous tenure as the state's chief minister.
The growing unrest among sugarcane cultivators has put additional pressure on the state administration to find sustainable solutions to the ongoing agrarian crisis, with political leaders across party lines now joining the chorus for immediate remedial measures.
