Farmers gather outside the regional commissioner’s office in Mysuru on Wednesday to protest official inaction against alleged illegal resorts in forest areas. | Photo credit: MA Sriram
Karnataka State Sugarcane Growers Association led by Hallikerehundi Bhagyaraj staged a demonstration against “official inaction” on their demand to remove illegal resorts, bars and hotels that were operating in forest areas.
Activists belonging to the organization staged a ‘shirtless’ demonstration outside the regional commissioner’s office in Mysuru on Wednesday, shouting slogans against officials and elected representatives.
Speaking on the occasion, Bhagyaraj recalled his protest held about a month ago demanding a joint survey by farmer leaders and officials to identify illegal structures, bars, restaurants and hotels operating in Kabini, Bandipur and Nagarahole forest areas.
In response to their demand, the regional commissioner subsequently convened a meeting at the Chamarajanagar deputy commissioner’s office and directed the officials to submit a report within ten days.
“However, no report has been published so far, no steps have been taken to remove the illegal constructions and even notices have not been issued,” he alleged, condemning the inaction of officials in the matter.
If the officials did not find any illegal activities, they should file a written statement in the matter, he demanded, while also asking the officials to write to the government asking for a judge-supervised inquiry if there was any political interference in their investigation.
Irrigation pumping units
Mr. Bhagyaraj also complained that about 50,000 irrigation pumps in Mysuru and Chamarajanagar were not getting enough power as per government regulations.
Also, improper implementation of the government’s solar project was adversely affecting agricultural activities, he claimed.
Published – 25 Feb 2026 19:58 IST
