Belagavi: A farmers' protest demanding a fair price for sugarcane is underway in Hirebagewadi village, Belagavi taluk, Belagavi district. The protest is being led by Shri Shankar Bh Madalagi, President of the Secular Janata Dal (JDS) Belagavi District Unit. This agitation is part of statewide protests across Karnataka.

On 6-11-2025, Shri Shankar Bh Madalagi participated in the ongoing day-and-night dharna protest at Basaveshwara Circle near Hirebagewadi village, Belagavi taluk, where farmers blocked the state highway. Addressing the gathering and extending support to the farmers, he demanded that the government fix ₹3,500 per tonne of sugarcane.PALAY® Straw Hat Sun Hats for Women,Wide Brim Cap

Farmer leaders Shri Mohan Melikeri, Iranna Roti, Prashant Desai, Raju Roti, and all farmers from Hirebagewadi village were present. Demand: Farmers are insisting on a fixed price of ₹3,500 per tonne of sugarcane. They have rejected the ₹3,200 rate offered by sugar factories.

Nature of Protest: The protest has continued for several days (recent reports indicate it has entered the third day at this site, or the district-wide agitation has reached its eighth day). It is taking place near Basava Circle in Hirebagewadi village, where farmers have blocked the Belagavi-Savadatti state highway to express their outrage. Farmers have warned that the protest could intensify if their demands are not met. Support: Various religious heads (mathadheeshs) and farmer leaders have extended support to the agitation. The protest is likely to continue until a fair price for sugarcane is ensured.