Farmers – BJP Leaders Back Bidadi Villagers Opposing Township Expansion
Farmers – Farmers protesting against a large-scale township development project near Bengaluru received support from senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders on Wednesday, as the opposition intensified its criticism of the Karnataka government’s proposed land acquisition plans.
A high-level BJP delegation led by Karnataka BJP President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra, Leader of Opposition in the Assembly R. Ashoka, and Opposition Leader in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy visited several villages in the Bidadi region to meet residents and assess their concerns regarding the proposed township project.
BJP Delegation Meets Affected Farmers
The leaders toured villages including Kempayyana Palya, Aralalasandra, Hosur and Bannigiri, where many farmers have been raising objections to the government’s plans to acquire agricultural land for urban development. Former Deputy Chief Minister C.N. Ashwath Narayan, senior MLA S. Suresh Kumar and other BJP representatives also joined the visit.
During their interactions, the delegation met local farmers, dairy producers and silk growers to understand how the project could affect their livelihoods. The leaders visited dairy facilities, agricultural fields and sericulture farms, where residents shared concerns about losing productive farmland and the economic uncertainty that could follow.
Opposition Targets State Government
Speaking in Bengaluru before the visit, Vijayendra accused the Congress-led government of placing commercial interests above the welfare of rural communities. He alleged that the administration was more focused on real estate-driven development than addressing the needs of farmers and economically weaker sections.
According to Vijayendra, the acquisition of fertile agricultural land for the proposed township raises serious concerns about the future of farming families in the region. He urged the government to reconsider its approach and avoid measures that could result in the displacement of farmers from lands cultivated for generations.
The BJP leader also called on the state government to withdraw the acquisition proposal and review the township project in its current structure. He maintained that development should not come at the expense of agricultural communities and sustainable rural livelihoods.
Political Tensions Ahead of Visit
Responding to questions about posters displayed in parts of the Bidadi area ahead of the BJP delegation’s arrival, Vijayendra dismissed their significance and accused the ruling party of attempting to create pressure on opposition leaders.
He stated that such campaigns would not discourage BJP leaders from visiting affected villages or speaking in support of protesting farmers. According to him, the party remains committed to raising issues linked to land acquisition and rural welfare.
Farmers’ Concerns Remain Central
The BJP reiterated that standing alongside farmers during the ongoing protests was an important responsibility. Party leaders said they would continue engaging with local communities and bring their concerns before the state government.
Many farmers in the region argue that the acquisition of fertile land could have long-term consequences for agriculture, dairy production and sericulture activities, which form a major source of income for local families.
About the Bidadi Township Project
The Greater Bengaluru Integrated Township (GBIT), commonly referred to as the Bidadi Township Project, is one of Karnataka’s most ambitious urban development initiatives. Planned on the outskirts of Bengaluru, the project aims to create a modern integrated township combining residential, commercial and employment zones.
Government estimates place the project cost between ₹18,000 crore and ₹20,000 crore. The proposed development is expected to span approximately 7,481 acres across nine villages in the Bidadi region. Officials have promoted the project as a future-ready urban hub, including plans linked to technology-driven growth and improved infrastructure.
Recently, the state government issued a final notification to acquire nearly 500 acres during the first phase, covering parts of Kempayyanapalya, Mandalahalli and Vaderahalli villages. While authorities say the project will generate jobs, housing opportunities and infrastructure development, opposition parties and local farmers continue to question the impact on agricultural land and rural livelihoods.