Bagalkote: On Friday, police reported that the fire involving sugarcane-laden vehicles in this district was intentional, as the perpetrators had brought petrol and other flammable materials to execute the arson. Additional Director General of Police R Hitendra stated that the culprits had infiltrated a farmers’ protest to carry out the act. The ADGP visited the site of the fire near a sugar factory in Samirwadi, where the vehicles were ignited. He later informed the media that a case had been filed against the unidentified offenders. “Sugarcane vehicles were set on fire. We have registered a case. Initial findings indicate that they brought petrol and other materials. It appears that under the guise of farmers, these individuals have committed this act.
Regardless of who they are, we will take stringent action,” the officer remarked. The ADGP noted that an investigation is underway, and police will identify and take action against those responsible. In the wake of the arson and violence on Thursday evening, prohibitory orders were enforced in Mudhol, Jamkhandi, Rabakavi, and Banahatti Taluks of the Bagalkote district. According to police sources, over 30 tractor trolleys, four motorcycles, and six tractor engines were damaged in the incident. The situation is now stable, with a significant police presence in the area. District in-charge Minister R B Thimmapur visited the location along with senior district officials. Meanwhile, farmers protested in Vijayapura district, demanding fair compensation for sugarcane.
The protesters blocked National Highway-52 near Yargal KD village in Sindagi Taluk, setting tires ablaze on the highway. Sugarcane farmers in North Karnataka are requesting a price of at least Rs 3,500 per tonne, while the state government has set the price at Rs 3,300 per tonne.