Tensions flared in Karnataka as protesting sugarcane farmers expressed their discontent by throwing slippers at a car belonging to a state minister. The incident occurred amidst ongoing demonstrations demanding a higher and fixed price for their sugarcane produce.

For over a week, farmers across several districts in North Karnataka, including Belagavi, Bagalkote, and Haveri, have been protesting, calling for the government to fix the purchase price of sugarcane at ₹3,500 per tonne. The protests have gained momentum, drawing support from various farmers' associations, student groups, opposition parties, and local organizations. Demonstrators have blocked major routes, burned tires, and staged large gatherings to voice their demands.

The incident involving the minister's car highlights the rising frustration among the sugarcane farmers. While details surrounding the specific minister and the location of the incident remain limited, it underscores the intensity of the situation and the farmers' determination to be heard.

H.K. Patil, the Karnataka Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, has extended an invitation to the protesting farmers for a meeting with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in Bengaluru. However, the farmers have declined the offer, stating they would only end their agitation if the government announces a higher price by Thursday evening. They believe that traveling to Bengaluru would send the wrong message to their fellow farmers and have requested the Deputy Commissioner to hold another round of talks to finalize the rate.

The farmers are demanding that the government adopt the pricing model of Maharashtra and fix the sugarcane price at ₹3,500 per quintal. They have accused the government of being unresponsive to their plight and siding with sugar factory owners. They have warned that the agitation would escalate if the government fails to address their concerns.

Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi has urged the Karnataka government to act responsibly and hold negotiations with the sugarcane farmers. He stated that the central government has fixed the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) at ₹350 per quintal. Joshi also stressed the importance of resolving the issue through dialogue and preventing further protests.

The state BJP unit has also extended its support to the protests. BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra joined the protesting farmers in Belagavi and participated in the overnight sit-in. Former Chief Minister and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai has urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to intervene immediately and ensure that farmers receive ₹3,500 per tonne. He suggested a contribution from the state government to bridge the gap if sugar factories pay less.

As the protests continue, the state government faces increasing pressure to find a resolution that satisfies the demands of the sugarcane farmers and ensures the stability of the sugar industry in Karnataka. A meeting with sugar factories is scheduled for the morning of November 7, followed by discussions with officials, with a final decision expected to be announced by the government by 2 p.m. on the same day.