Belagavi: The ongoing agitation by vegetable traders and farmers in support of the APMC Vegetable Market created severe inconvenience to the public on Thursday as protesters blocked key roads.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan appealed to the protesters to vacate the roads and move to the premises of the Collector’s office. He assured them that a suitable solution to their demands would be worked out within six hours.
The protest comes just two days after a rally was staged in favour of the Jai Kisan Private Wholesale Market. On Thursday morning, hundreds of farmers and traders marched to the Collector’s office despite heavy rain.
Speaking to the crowd, DC Roshan remarked, “Like you, I too have been on the road for the past eight days. This situation should never have arisen. The administration has been working tirelessly to safeguard farmers’ interests.”
He also noted that arguments and counter-arguments between both groups had been ongoing, but law and order was being maintained by the administration and police. “I will now go to my office and take a lawful decision on your concerns,” he assured.
The DC further urged the protesters not to block public roads during meal breaks, pointing out that the Collector’s office premises had ample space. “Common citizens have been suffering for the past two days, and even patients in the nearby hospital are facing hardships,” he added.
