Jogulamba Gadwal faced turmoil on Tuesday as many farmers protested on the Aiza to Gadwal road in Bingidoddi village, located in the Alampur constituency. These farmers, who grow seed cotton, demanded fair treatment from seed companies that allegedly refused to buy their entire harvest.
Farmers reported that seed companies decided to purchase only 2 quintals of cotton per acre this year, unlike last year when they bought the entire yield. Typically, seed cotton produces 4 to 5 quintals per acre, so this change has caused significant distress among farmers.
“We had no choice but to uproot our crops and protest. It’s our only way to protect our rights,” said Ramesh, a farmer from Bingidoddi. He mentioned that the company promised to buy the full crop during planting season, leading many to invest heavily. “Now, they’re backing out, leaving us in despair,” he explained.
Farmers claim they can’t sell their seed cotton to other companies due to strict contract terms. “If the company that gave us seeds won’t buy them, who will?” another frustrated farmer asked.
Farmers feel betrayed, as this goes against earlier verbal agreements and results in financial strain. Many took out loans hoping for good returns but now face having excess produce without buyers.
With hundreds of farmers blocking the road, traffic was halted for nearly three kilometers, causing issues for travelers. As tensions rose, police hurried to the scene to manage the situation. Officials attempted to calm the farmers and restore traffic, but the farmers insisted that companies fulfill their original promises.
The unrest persists, with farmers urging district officials and the agriculture department to step in. They demand seed companies be held responsible to protect their livelihoods.
