Haveri : A farmers’ protest briefly disrupted the ‘Prajaseva’ programme at Dr BR Ambedkar Sabha Bhavan on Saturday after participants alleged that officials and elected representatives had disrespected the ‘Raitha Geethe’ (Farmers’ Anthem).
Stay updated with the latest Hubballi news. The programme, presided over by sugar, textile and Haveri district minister Rudrappa Lamani, began with organisers playing the anthem. Farmers alleged that public representatives and officials seated on the dais failed to stand while it was played. Several farmers objected and questioned the officials’ attitude towards farmers and their sentiments. They protested inside the hall, temporarily disrupting proceedings and creating tension at the venue. Deputy commissioner Vijay Mahantesh Danammanavar held discussions with the protesters and persuaded them to withdraw their agitation, after which the programme resumed. Farmers demanded that such protocol lapses should not recur at official events. The incident also prompted debate over the sensitivity of officials and elected representatives towards farmers’ concerns at a govt outreach programme intended to address public grievances. Download the TOI App.