Farmers stage a protest outside Suvarna Soudha during the Winter session of Karnataka Legislative Assembly, in Belagavi district, Monday, Dec. 4, 2023.
PTI
Davanagere: Opposing the state government's apathy towards farmers, a protest at Belagavi's Suvarna Soudha will be staged on December 13, announced Karnataka State Farmers' Association President Kodihalli Chandrashekhar.
Addressing media persons, here on Monday, he said before the assembly elections, the Congress has forgotten the promises made in the manifesto related to agriculture. "The statement of being a farmer-friendly government is limited to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's words," he alleged.
He expressed anger, stating, "During BS Yediyurappa's tenure as chief minister, Siddaramaiah criticised the agricultural laws implemented. Even after one and a half years in power, no decision has been made regarding the amendment of the Land Reforms Act. Cultivation rights have not been issued to Bagair Hukum farmers."
Notices have been issued to several farmers in the state under the pretext of Waqf Board property. The process of amending the records in favour of farmers is progressing slowly, causing concern among farmers due to the government's actions. The Forest Department is harassing small farmers, he expressed dissatisfaction.
There is no difference between Congress and BJP on farmers' issues. The central government is attempting to mislead the country in setting minimum support prices. The minimum support price should be set according to the standards of the Swaminathan Commission report. A legal framework is necessary for this, and it should be implemented legislatively, he insisted.
He accused, "Congress is supporting BJP's attempt to privatise the electricity sector. The privatisation process has begun in the state. Farmers are being instructed to use solar power for agricultural pumpsets. There is a plan to make prepaid electricity meters mandatory for homes, on the lines of the Mumbai model."
State Farmers' Association Vice President Bhaktarhalli Bairegowda, State Secretary Mallashettihalli Channabasappa, District Unit President Shatakoti Basappa, Vice President Chinnasamudra Shekharnaik, District Secretary N. Basavaraj Daginakatte, and Ganesh were present.