Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara announced that 42 farmers were arrested in connection with the violent protest allegedly due to the sudden dip of Byadgi red chilli prices in Byadgi market in Haveri district on Monday. The Minister said that in order to nab the culprits involved in the violence, another team has also been sent to Nellore region in Andhra Pradesh.
According to IANS, Parameshwara said, "Those who had come from outside have escaped. The CCTV footage is being verified to track them down. Action will be initiated against those who indulged in violence."
On Monday, farmers in Haveri unleashed a protest at Byadgi market following a drastic plunge in prices of the famous Byadgi chilli. The precipitous drop from Rs 20,000 to Rs 8,000 per quintal sparked outrage among the agricultural community, leading to a violent protest.
The incident unfolded rapidly as farmers, unable to contain their despair over the plummeting prices, resorted to pelting stones at the APMC office. The situation escalated when some of the protesters forcefully entered the office premises vandalising the property.
They damaged furniture, shattered glass windows, and set ablaze vehicles belonging to the APMC staff. Reports indicate that two cars and ten bikes were consumed by the flames in the turmoil. Talking to ANI, Haveri SP Anshukumar said, "There is an uproar about chilli price... One person was also injured... Investigation is underway and we will provide complete information soon... We have already taken some people in custody... The implementation of Section 144 is under review..."