Protests Led by Raju Shetti Halt Sugarcane Transport in Maharashtra
Farmers in Maharashtra intensify protests, disrupting sugarcane supplies to mills in Kolhapur and Sangli.
Over 300 vehicles halted as farmers demand higher sugarcane prices.
Protests have led to disruptions in sugarcane harvesting and transport.
A crucial meeting between farmers and sugar mill representatives is scheduled.
Protests in Maharashtra escalated on Thursday as supporters of farmers' leader Raju Shetti continued to obstruct the transportation of sugarcane to mills in Kolhapur, Sangli, and parts of Solapur. This disruption comes despite attempts by the state government to mediate the ongoing dispute regarding sugarcane pricing.
The agitation, led by the Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana, saw more than 300 tractors and bullock carts halted on Wednesday night. Protesters have set up camps outside various sugar mills, effectively blocking vehicles laden with sugarcane from entering factory premises. The unrest has also impacted harvesting operations in Solapur, further complicating the situation for local farmers.
The protests have notably affected sugar supplies to the Krishna Sugar Factory near Karad and the Rajarambapu Sugar Factory in Sangli. Additionally, a truck transporting sugar from the Sharad Sugar Factory in Kolhapur was stopped by demonstrators. Tensions have risen following reports of sugarcane transport vehicles being set ablaze by unidentified individuals, prompting police to enhance security measures in the affected areas and warn protesters against violent actions.
Raju Shetti visited the protest sites amid reports of police actions against demonstrators, criticizing the state government for not addressing farmers' demands adequately. He reiterated that farmers are seeking Rs 4,500 per tonne as the initial payment for sugarcane and condemned the government's refusal to meet this demand.
In response to the escalating situation, the state government has stepped in to facilitate discussions aimed at resolving the deadlock. A meeting between Shetti and sugar mill representatives, originally set for Thursday evening, has been rescheduled for Friday afternoon. District officials indicated that the talks will focus on sugarcane pricing, with the outcome potentially pivotal in alleviating the ongoing blockade affecting sugar factories in the region.
