Gadag
Farmers and various organisations called for a bandh in Naragund town on Saturday, September 12, demanding that the Karnataka government declare drought in the region and provide immediate relief to affected farmers. The protesters also sought compensation under crop insurance schemes and a complete loan waiver for farmers who have borrowed from nationalised banks.
The bandh was jointly called by several farmers’ organisations and the Malaprabha Ayacut Area Forum, along with other groups. Shops and commercial establishments remained closed, while bus services were also suspended in the town. Farmers gathered on the main road and blocked the Hubballi-Naragund-Vijayapura-Solapur National Highway, expressing anger over what they described as the government’s failure to address their long-pending demands.
The highway blockade affected movement between Naragund and neighbouring areas, leaving several passengers stranded. Authorities reportedly arranged alternative routes for vehicles following the road blockade. However, private vehicles continued to operate through other routes. Schools, colleges and government offices in the town also functioned as usual despite the bandh.
The protesters demanded that all seven taluks of Gadag district be declared drought-hit and that eligible farmers receive drought relief without delay. They also pressed for timely payment of crop insurance compensation, saying farmers facing crop losses need financial support to manage the ongoing agricultural crisis.
A large number of farmers and activists from different organisations participated in the protest. Raising slogans in support of their demands, they urged the state government to take immediate steps to address farmers’ problems and announce relief measures. The bandh resulted in disruption to normal transport and business activities in Naragund, while the protest highlighted growing dissatisfaction among farmers over drought relief, crop insurance and farm loans.