Hinjawadi : A spirited protest at the Sant Tukaram Sugar Factory saw a united front of farmers demanding a fair price of 3300 rupees per metric ton for their sugarcane. Led by factory director Mauli Dabhade and organized by the Pune District Kisan Union, with unwavering support from Sant Tukaram Sugar Factory workers, the demonstration aimed to address multiple crucial issues.
The factory’s premises were transformed into a camp on the inauguration of the 26th harvesting season, as farmers converged to voice their concerns. The demonstration commenced with a resolute march from the Shri Sant Tukaram Maharaj temple to the factory entrance, where critical announcements were made.
During the gathering, Mauli Dabhade leveled serious allegations against the factory, particularly concerning irregularities in its annual balance sheet report. Dabhade contended that the reported net profit of 8 crores and the provision for a 2-crore rupee income tax payment were detrimental to the sugarcane farmers. He argued that the sugar industry typically enjoys income tax exemptions, and the factory benefits from a 14 crore rupee income from the Sahvi Project, totaling 24 crore rupees. Meanwhile, sugar is being sold at a rate exceeding 30 rupees per quintal or more than 3000 rupees per metric ton, yet the factory offers a nominal price of 2634 rupees per ton.
Mauli Dabhade pointed out that by selling 2 lakh metric tons of sugar at 3700 rupees per ton, the factory has accumulated an additional 14 crore rupees. In total, the sugar factory has amassed 38 crore rupees, excluding the long-standing debt of 200 rupees per metric ton owed to the farmers over the past twelve years. Consequently, the farmers are demanding the acceptance of the 3300 rupees per ton price and prompt payment before Diwali. Participants in the march represented farmers from Mulshi, Maval, Khed, Shirur, and Haveli talukas.
