Farmer leader Chunappa Poojary and protesters detained in Belagavi
Farmers have called for district-wide road blockades after police detained approximately 100 people during a planned demonstration.
Police in Belagavi detained farmer leader Chunappa Poojary and hundreds of protesters at Muktimath on Thursday, according to ANI. The group had gathered for a 'Jail Bharo' protest organised by farmers' associations.
The demonstration sought a demand from the Chief Minister to announce Rs 1,000 as State Advised Price (SAP) support per tonne of sugarcane, in addition to the Central Government's Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP). Following the detentions, farmers have called for road blockades at various locations across the district.
Belagavi City Police Commissioner Prakash Nikam stated that prohibitory orders under Section 163 were imposed in the city to maintain law and order and protect students and patients. Nikam said around 100 people were detained and sent to different locations, but noted they were not arrested.
Farmer groups alleged that a protester who had undergone heart surgery fell ill while in police custody during transit to Gokak. Protesters claimed that despite requests for medical help, security personnel left the individual in a deserted area near Basapura village, after which farmers took the person to the Basapura Primary Health Centre.
Before being detained, Chunappa Poojary said, "Our struggle will not stop." Farmers have alleged that the government is suppressing their struggle.