Devanahalli farmers protest land acquisition plans

Farmers from Devanahalli drew attention today as they arrived at Vidhana Soudha carrying baskets of fruits, vegetables, and flowers they had cultivated—symbolically protesting the proposed land acquisition for a Defence and Aerospace Park in Channarayapatna Hobli.

The protest comes in response to a notification issued on August 27, 2021, followed by an official order on February 15, 2022, to acquire 1,777 acres and 2 guntas of farmland across 13 villages. The farmers are demanding the complete withdrawal of this acquisition plan, which they claim threatens their livelihood and future.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met with the protesting farmers during a meeting at Vidhana Soudha but termed the discussion “inconclusive.” He assured them that a follow-up meeting would be held on July 15 after reviewing the legal and technical implications of the project.

“There are legal complications since the final acquisition notification has already been issued. The government needs 10 more days to consult experts and arrive at a clear decision,” the CM stated. He emphasized that the government believes in democracy and open dialogue, adding, “We are not here to suppress protests. I myself was once part of a farmers’ union.”

Actor and activist Prakash Raj, who was present at the protest, said the government’s response was encouraging. “This is no longer a local issue—it has become a national struggle. We are confident the farmers will get their land back,” he said. The protest is expected to continue until the next meeting on July 15.