CH NEWS, MANDYA
A protest was held in Mandya city by CITU and farmers’ organizations against policies of the central and state governments.
Hundreds of activists gathered at Sanjay Circle and raised slogans demanding protection of workers’ and farmers’ rights.
The activists demanded immediate withdrawal of labour laws they said were weakening workers’ rights. They also opposed taking fertile agricultural land for the Bidadi Township project, saying farmers should not be forced to give up their land. They accused the central government of ignoring common people and farmers while favoring corporate companies.
During the protest, demonstrators suddenly blocked the old Mysore-Bengaluru highway and sat in a dharna, bringing traffic to a standstill. The road blockade led to a heated exchange between police and protesters as officers tried to clear the route. Protesters refused to move, insisting that their demands be heard by the authorities.
Police detained leaders and activists. Women protesters who remained seated on the highway were removed by officers and taken into police vehicles. The action caused tension at the protest site, while traffic movement was restored. Organizers said the demonstration aimed at highlighting concerns over labour rights and farmers’ land.
They maintained that the government must listen to communities and reconsider policies they believe are harmful to workers and farmers. The detention of protesters brought the confrontation to a close, but the demands raised during the demonstration are likely to remain an issue. The protesters said they would continue the campaign through means and press for action on labour rights and farmers’ concerns before withdrawing their highway blockade.