Members of the Karnataka State Sugarcane Growers Association will stage a protest near the Deputy Commissioner’s office demanding release of pending sugarcane arrears and opposing any move to lift the night traffic ban through Bandipur National Park.
The agitation comes amid growing farmer anger over unpaid dues and environmental concerns linked to transport movement through protected forest areas.
₹950 crore dues demand
Association president Hallikerehundi Bhagyaraj said around ₹950 crore in sugarcane dues have remained pending for the last two years.
He also accused Bannari Sugar Factory of withholding ₹18 crore and demanded the amount be deposited directly into farmers’ bank accounts immediately.
Equal cane price sought
Bhagyaraj alleged a ₹800 per tonne pricing gap between North Karnataka and South Karnataka sugarcane growers. He urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to ensure uniform pricing across the state.
The association also demanded transparent weighing systems, fair agreements and local expert committees to prevent alleged cheating at sugar factories.
Bandipur night traffic opposition
The group strongly opposed proposals linked to allowing night traffic through Bandipur National Park and the Nanjangud-Nilambur railway project, calling them harmful to Karnataka’s environment.
Leaders warned that such moves could damage forests, affect groundwater and push wildlife closer to human settlements.
Water and loan corruption issues raised
The association also urged immediate water release from the Kabini Reservoir to save standing crops.
Further, it alleged corruption in agricultural loan disbursal, claiming some officials demand commissions from farmers seeking zero-interest crop loans.
Protest to highlight rural distress
The demonstration is expected to bring attention to farmer dues, pricing concerns and environmental issues ahead of the next cropping cycle