Factions among farmers delay sugarcane meeting in Belagavi
Disagreements over attendee lists and meeting locations caused a delay in discussions between sugarcane farmers and factory officials on Tuesday.
A meeting between sugarcane farmers and factory officials in Belagavi was delayed on Tuesday due to disputes between different farmer factions, according to The Hindu.
District administration officials invited a group of 50 farmers to the meeting following instructions from district in-charge Minister Satish Jarkiholi. This led to protests from other farmers who demanded to be included, claiming a small group should not decide for everyone.
Some protesters gathered at the Deputy Commissioner’s office but were stopped by police, who stated only those with invitations could enter. Other farmers requested the meeting be moved to an open ground, but district officials refused, stating they were instructed to hold it at the office.
In-charge Deputy Commissioner Rahul Shindhe convened the meeting to resolve a deadlock regarding sugarcane prices. Farmers are demanding ₹4,500 per tonne of sugarcane, while factories want to continue paying the Fair and Remunerative Prices of ₹3,650 per tonne.
The tension follows an incident on October 26, when members of various factions fought before a meeting with the Chief Minister at the Suvarna Soudha over unclear demands.