Mysuru: Members of the Karnataka State Sugarcane Growers Association have announced a protest on April 18 near the Deputy Commissioner's office, demanding immediate payment of pending sugarcane dues.
Addressing a press conference, association president Hallikerehundi Bhagyaraj said around Rs 950 crore in payments has remained unpaid to farmers for the past two years. He urged the state government to deposit the dues directly into farmers' bank accounts without delay, Deccan Herald reported.
The association also raised concerns over a price gap of about Rs 800 per tonne between North and South Karnataka, calling on the Chief Minister to ensure uniform pricing across the state.
To address alleged irregularities at sugar mills, the group demanded fair agreements, proper weighing systems and the formation of a local expert committee to verify weights.
Farmers also called for the immediate release of water from the Kabini reservoir into canals to protect standing crops.
Several office-bearers, including honorary president Andanakoppalu Raju, treasurer Kiragasuru Rajanna, district president Baraguru Ganesh, vice-president Devanur Nagendra and Kabini Shivarajappa, were present at the press meet.