Infrastructure – Karnataka Land Acquisition Row Intensifies as JD(S) Announces Statewide Farmers’ Protest

Infrastructure – A fresh political dispute has emerged in Karnataka over the proposed land acquisition for infrastructure projects near Bidadi, with Janata Dal (Secular) Youth President Nikhil Kumaraswamy accusing the state government of endangering fertile agricultural land and calling for a large-scale protest in support of affected farmers.

The controversy revolves around the Karnataka government’s proposed land acquisition for projects linked to the GBIT corridor and AI City near Bidadi. Nikhil Kumaraswamy alleged that the plan would convert thousands of acres of productive farmland into commercial real estate, claiming the move would adversely affect farmers and agricultural output that supports Bengaluru. According to him, the initiative cannot be described as development if it results in the loss of livelihoods and fertile land.

Opposition Raises Concerns Over Agricultural Impact

In a statement shared on social media platform X, Nikhil Kumaraswamy argued that the proposed acquisition would impact land known for producing milk, vegetables and silk for the Bengaluru region. He alleged that around 7,480 acres of farmland could be acquired and claimed the project would primarily benefit private developers rather than local communities. He also described the proposal as unfair to farming families that have cultivated the land for generations.

Farmers’ Livelihoods Become Central Issue

The JD(S) leader further claimed that notices had been issued for the removal of nearly one million trees and warned that dairy production in the region could also be affected. He said a large number of small and marginal farmers face the risk of losing their primary source of income. While the government has spoken about financial compensation, Kumaraswamy maintained that monetary relief cannot replace ancestral land, which he described as an inseparable part of farmers’ identity, livelihood and future.

Protest March Scheduled for August

Reaffirming his support for the ongoing farmers’ movement, Kumaraswamy said he has stood with those opposing the project since the beginning of the agitation. He announced a three-day protest march from August 9 to August 11, 2026, beginning at Bhairamangala and concluding at Freedom Park in Bengaluru. He appealed to farmers, women and young people to participate in the demonstration, saying the objective is to protect agricultural land and oppose the proposed township development in Bidadi.

Government Responds to Political Allegations

The proposed township has already become a major political issue in Karnataka, with Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar responding to criticism earlier in July. Addressing the controversy, he said the Bidadi township proposal was not his personal initiative and expressed disappointment over the political confrontation surrounding the project.

Shivakumar stated that recent events in Bidadi had caused him concern and alleged that political interests were creating uncertainty among farmers. He maintained that he had never described the township as his dream project and said he was implementing decisions that had been initiated during the tenure of former Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy.

Political Debate Continues

The disagreement has further sharpened the political divide between the ruling Congress government and the opposition JD(S). While the opposition argues that the proposed acquisition threatens agriculture, the government has maintained that the project should not be viewed as an individual political initiative. As preparations for the announced protest gather momentum, the future of the Bidadi development proposal is expected to remain a significant issue in Karnataka’s political and public discourse.