Four chilli farmers in Somasamudra village, Kurugodu taluk of Ballari district, attempted suicide on Sunday due to unpaid dues from Bengaluru-based Agrigreed Pvt Ltd, which had purchased their produce over a year ago.
Farmers’ Plight and Attempted Suicide
Rudresh (55), Hanumanth (40), Shekar (45), and Kunesh (50) consumed poison during a protest against the company’s prolonged delay in clearing payments. The farmers, part of a group of 100, had collectively sold chillies worth Rs 1.9 crore to the company. While bills for 54 farmers were settled, the remaining 46, including the four who attempted suicide, await payment.
Appeal for Resolution
Hanumantappa Vaddar, representing the affected farmers, expressed disappointment over bounced cheques issued by Agrigreed Pvt Ltd, despite assurances and initial trust in the company’s credibility. He appealed to local authorities, including the Ballari deputy commissioner, CEO, and superintendent of police, to intervene swiftly and resolve the financial crisis.
Agricultural Challenges in Kurugodu Taluk
Kurugodu taluk is renowned for its significant contribution to chilli production in Kalyana-Karnataka, highlighting the critical role of timely payments in sustaining agricultural livelihoods.
