Farmers Protest Against Sterlite Power Over Crop Damage in Moodbidri

Farmers Protest Against Sterlite Power Over Crop Damage in Moodbidri

Mangalore Today News Network

Moodbidri, Nov 2, 2025: Hundreds of farmers staged a protest on Saturday against Sterlite Power Company, accusing it of damaging farmlands and using police force during the construction of the Udupi–Kasargod 440 kV power line project.

The protest began near the Ashwathapura Sitarama Temple, followed by a march to farmer Bhaskar Shetty’s field in Ontimar, where crops were allegedly destroyed. A meeting was later held at his residence.

Kemar Sandeepani Math’s Sri Esha Vittaldas Swamiji condemned what he called “anti-farmer corporate projects” and criticised the government for allowing industries that “disturb the region’s peace.” He said, “The development of farmers is the development of the nation. If farming perishes, humanity will also perish.”

Farmer leader Narayana Swami urged unity among farmers, accusing the company of entering lands illegally and destroying crops. “We do not need development that tramples over farmers,” he said, demanding that the project be shifted away from agricultural areas.

State farmer leaders and local representatives, including Sucharita Shetty, Krishna Prasad Tantri, and gram panchayat president Shalini, joined the protest.