The Karnataka State Farmers’ Association on Wednesday staged a sit-in protest outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office, demanding higher compensation for agricultural land acquired for the Dharwad–Belagavi railway line and justice for affected farmers.
Association president Pujari alleged that the issue has remained unresolved since the tenure of late MP Suresh Angadi and accused the government and railway authorities of adopting a discriminatory approach towards compensation.
The association said the acquired land falls within the fertile Malaprabha river basin and sought compensation of at least ₹3 crore per acre, arguing that the amount would enable farmers to purchase alternative agricultural land. Protesters claimed that farmers in the Bidadi region have received compensation of up to ₹3 crore per acre, while those in Belagavi district have been treated unfairly.
The farmers also demanded that one member from every affected family be provided employment in the Railways or another government department.
Warning of an intensified agitation if their demands are ignored, the association urged the district administration to take up the matter with the railway authorities and ensure a fair resolution.
Among those who participated in the protest were Prakash Naik, Kishan Nandi, Prem Chougala, Padigouda Bagewadi, Javed Mulla, Maruti Lokur, Parashuram Jadhav, along with several office-bearers and farmers.