Karnataka faces farmer protests and BJP warnings over police actions

Farmers in Karnataka have threatened an indefinite blockade of national highways starting October 13 if upcoming negotiations with Union Minister Pralhad Joshi fail to address sugarcane pricing demands. The Karnataka Rajya Raita Sangha and Green Brigade are seeking a price of Rs 5,500 per tonne, alongside requirements for payments within 14 days of harvest and 15% interest on delayed payments. They also demand that sugar mills cover harvesting and transport costs and that the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) account for mill revenues from ethanol, molasses, and electricity.

Separately, the BJP in Karnataka has warned of laying siege to police stations and district SP offices. State BJP president B Y Vijayendra accused the Congress government of misusing police machinery by registering FIRs against party workers who submitted Form-7 applications to object to electoral roll entries. The party claims these actions follow Election Commission rules and noted that the Karnataka High Court has previously criticized the state government regarding this issue.