Civil society urges Congress top brass to stand with Devanahalli farmers

Bengaluru: A group of scholars, including scientists, public intellectuals, writers and artists — from Ramachandra Guha to Arundhathi Nag — have come together by writing an open letter to urge the Congress high command to intervene in the ongoing farmers' protest in Devanahalli. 

CM Siddaramaiah had convened a meeting with farmer representatives on July 4, assuring them that a resolution would be reached by July 15. However, some officials have since expressed apprehensions that meeting the farmers' demands may drive industries to neighbouring states. This appears to be paving the way for delays or a possible retreat from the commitment. 

The letter is signed by former chairman of Karnataka Agricultural Prices Commission T N Prakash Kammardi on behalf of 65 people endorsing it. It highlights the government’s "violation" of rules on land acquisition. 

It is addressed to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and copies sent to Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, other party leaders and Congress MPs from the state. 

The Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition Act, 2013, requires informed consent from at least 70% of affected landowners. The survey conducted by KIADB revealed that over 80% of farmers from 13 villages in the Devanahalli taluk opposed the acquisition, the letter said. 

At least 163 affected farmers belong to SC/ST communities and much of this land was granted to them under land reform schemes

KIADB holds substantial tracts of unused land across the state that could easily accommodate industrial projects. Acquiring fertile farmland raises concerns, the letter said. 

It urged the Congress to ensure that the government honours its word and stands by farmers.