In a powerful demonstration of unity and protest, the Hadapsar market in Pune remains closed as traders and farmers stand in solidarity with Khotidar farmers, who have initiated a hunger strike. The protest is a response to what the farmers deem an unjust stance taken by the Board of Directors of the Hadapsar market.
Balasaheb Bhise, a Khotidar farmer at Hadapsar market, expressed the farmers’ commitment to their cause, saying, “We are firm on our decision to go on a hunger strike until we get some relief.” Bhise also acknowledged the potential losses faced by other traders and farmers due to the market shutdown and appealed for support to ensure smooth selling of produce.
The conflict dates back to December 2023 when Khotidar farmers faced heckling at the Late Annasaheb Magar market in Hadapsar. In response, Balasaheb Bhise initiated the ‘Bheek Maago Andolan’ (Begging Movement) to protest against the market committee’s actions. The movement aimed to draw attention to the challenges faced by Khotidar farmers.
As the hunger strike entered its sixth day in late January 2024, there has been no response from the market committee regarding the demands of the protesting farmers. Balasaheb Bhise remains resolute in his decision to continue the hunger strike until their grievances are addressed.
Prominent political figures, including MLA Ashok Pawar, former MLA Mahadev Babar, and other leaders, have extended their support to the hunger strike. Despite interventions and appeals, the Hadapsar market committee has not taken a decision, prompting the hunger strike participants to warn of intensifying their protest.
