Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy has thrown his full weight behind farmers in Bidadi, who are staunchly opposing the forced acquisition of their land for a proposed integrated township. Speaking on Sunday, he unequivocally stated that not a single inch of farmland would be seized without consent. He issued a severe warning to all officials, especially police personnel, reminding them that they could face serious legal repercussions, including imprisonment, if they resorted to coercive tactics.
During a protest rally held by Bidadi farmers, which he addressed via videoconference from New Delhi, Mr. Kumaraswamy emphasized his commitment. ‘Should there be any oversight in safeguarding the interests of our farmers and local residents,’ he declared, ‘I will personally be there on the ground to ensure their protection.’
He also fiercely criticized Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, dismissing claims that the Bidadi township project originated with the Deve Gowda family as ‘false propaganda.’
Kumaraswamy further accused Mr. Shivakumar of forcibly evicting an individual from Billakempanahalli who had established a hotel on the Bangalore–Mysore highway, financed by a Karnataka Finance Corporation loan. He alleged that this property was subsequently acquired at an unfairly low price, only for a school to be constructed on the same plot.
Additionally, he made grave accusations, claiming a soldier’s daughter was kidnapped in an effort to compel the soldier to surrender his land. Kumaraswamy also alleged that Mr. Shivakumar had encroached upon lands designated for the NICE Road project near Hosakerehalli, as well as substantial areas intended for the Bangalore–Mysore Expressway.
Reiterating his unwavering commitment, he pledged full solidarity with the farmers’ ongoing agitation. ‘I stand firmly with your struggle. I will personally join the protests, and for the well-being of our farmers, I am prepared to set aside any personal health concerns,’ he affirmed.
The Union Minister then issued a stern and direct warning to all public officers, particularly those in the police force, cautioning them against pressuring farmers into relinquishing their land.
“You are committing a grave error,” he admonished, “and you will undeniably face the consequences. Your actions could even lead to imprisonment. This government’s tenure is limited, with only two years remaining. I am fully aware of what will transpire thereafter. Do not harass these hardworking farmers simply because you’ve been given orders to do so.”