CM D.K. Shivakumar Appeals to Sugarcane Farmers to Remain Patient
Udupi: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has appealed to sugarcane farmers across the state to remain patient, stating that the issue of sugarcane prices is not confined to Karnataka but affects farmers across the country. He said discussions were also being held with leaders from Maharashtra to address the issue.
Speaking to the media on Thursday near the Sri Mahalakshmi Temple at Ucchila in Kaup taluk of Udupi district, Shivakumar said the government was committed to protecting the interests of both sugarcane farmers and sugar factories.
“We want sugarcane farmers to sustain their livelihoods and sugar factories to continue operating. This is our objective. We have discussed the issue with Union government ministers, who have convened a meeting. Due to inadequate rainfall this season, sugarcane production has also declined. Nobody should take the law into their own hands,” he said.
He noted that sugar and sugarcane prices had not increased in the past 10 years. He added that the state government had announced financial assistance for sugarcane farmers last year and would continue providing support.
“We have already announced assistance for sugarcane farmers, and we will continue it. Everyone should remain patient for some time. Let us discuss the issue,” he appealed.
Voting Rights Must Be Protected: Shivakumar
Responding to a question about the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Shivakumar said the voting rights of all citizens must be protected, irrespective of their political affiliations.
“Everyone’s vote must be protected without discrimination based on political affiliation. Voting is a constitutional right granted to the people of this country. I will work to safeguard that right,” he said.
Describing the coastal region as sacred land, Shivakumar said he had visited the Sri Mahalakshmi Temple at Ucchila to offer prayers and seek the blessings of the goddess.
“Even when efforts fail, prayers never fail. I have been allowed to serve the people and resolve their problems. I have come here to seek the blessings of Goddess Mahalakshmi and offer my prayers,” he said.