Farmers and representatives of various organisations — who have been fighting for an early solution to the Mahadayi water dispute — have welcomed the State government’s decision to withdraw cases filed against those involved in the agitation over the issue in Navalgund and Naragund.
The State Cabinet on Wednesday decided to withdraw 94 cases, including 22 of serious nature, filed against farmers in connection with the protests.
Elected representatives and various organisations have been demanding withdrawal of the cases ever since the cases were filed. In July, the continued apathy of both the State and Union governments in resolving the Mahadayi row led to farmers resorting to violent protests in Navalgund of Dharwad district and Nargund of Gadag district. The violent protests had resulted in damages to public property, including a court complex, resulting in filing of cases against those took part in the agitation.
However, soon after there were instances of police brutality on farmers and their family members. The development led to huge criticism, leading to the government to order an inquiry into the incidents of violence and police brutality. Subsequently, even a bandh was observed protesting the arrests. As the government took time to withdraw the cases, advocates volunteered to get the farmers released on bail.
Welcoming the move, conveners of Kalasa Banduri Nala Horata Samanvaya Samiti Vikas Soppin, Mahesh Pattar, and Amrut Ijari and others thanked all the individuals and organisations who stood with the farmers.
Welcoming Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s statement on resumption of dialogue with the new government of Goa for amicable settlement of the row, they urged the CM to also prevail upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi country to intervene in the issue. N.H. Konaraddi, MLA for Navalgund, thanked the Chief Minister for acting according to his assurance given on the floor of the House. He has also urged Mr. Siddaramaiah to take steps to withdraw the remaining cases against the farmers.
