Land Battle in Bidadi: Gowda's Fight for Farmers' Rights

Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda has openly criticized the controversial Bidadi Township project in Karnataka, accusing the government of land appropriation from farmers for business interests. This development project, amounting to Rs 18,133 crore, has already received Cabinet approval and is facing staunch opposition from local farmers.

During a media briefing, Gowda directed his remarks towards Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, whom he believes is responsible for pushing the project forward without considering the farmers' plight. The project, covering 7,481 acres across nine villages, has met with fierce resistance from local politicians and villagers.

Gowda also appealed to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, urging him to investigate the allegations of land acquisitions around Bengaluru and to stand up against the pressures that threaten social justice. The former PM indicated his readiness to intensify his campaign to protect the rights of Bidadi's farming community.

(With inputs from agencies.)