Farm Loan Waiver Protests Heat Up in Maharashtra

Former MLA Bachchu Kadu leads a large protest demanding a farm loan waiver, blocking National Highway 44. Following a directive from the Bombay High Court, protesters agreed to relocate to a nearby ground. Talks with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis may determine further protest actions.

In a high-stakes standoff over farm loan waivers, former MLA Bachchu Kadu spearheads a significant protest in Maharashtra, with demonstrators initially blocking National Highway 44. However, following a Bombay High Court directive, protestors agreed to move to a nearby ground.

The court intervened after learning of a staggering 20-kilometer traffic jam caused by the protest. Ministers Pankaj Bhoyar and Ashish Jaiswal conveyed a message from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inviting discussions in Mumbai, promising a more constructive dialogue regarding farmers' grievances.

Though the immediate protest has been tempered, Kadu warns that unless fruitful negotiations occur, plans for intensified actions such as a 'rail roko' on October 31 are on the table. The Maharashtra government emphasizes its commitment to addressing farm losses from recent heavy rains while exploring waiver solutions through a dedicated committee.

(With inputs from agencies.)