Paddy farmers to stage hunger strike

Paddy farmers in Ponnani kole are protesting against the State government over the alleged delay in payment for their paddy procured five months ago. As part of the protest, they have announced plans to stage a hunger strike on Onam day.

Farmers under the banner of the Kole Protection Committee will stage a hunger strike at Changaramkulam near Edappal on Thursday.

The farmers expressed disappointment with the government despite Supplyco having procured their paddy in May. They were supposed to receive payment through special loans via the State Bank of India and Canara Bank, but the banks claimed to have reached their loan limit, hindering the payment process.

They alleged that the banks had cited loan ceilings as a reason to withhold payments. However, bank officials were unavailable for comment. Supplyco owed ₹18.5 crore to 2,957 farmers from the Kole wetlands of Malappuram and Thrissur for the paddy procured from them.

The Kole wetlands spread across Thrissur and Malappuram districts form a vital ecosystem that provides livelihoods to thousands of farmers. The wetlands are known for their rich biodiversity and contribute significantly to Kerala’s rice production, accounting for nearly 40% of the State’s requirement.

The Kole wetlands are also home to various bird species and play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region. Farmers threatened to intensify their agitation if the government did not address their grievances.