Devanahalli farmers rejoice as 1,198-day protest ends in historic victory

Jubilant scenes unfolded in Devanahalli on Tuesday as farmers and activists celebrated a hard-fought triumph after a 1,198-day-long protest. The Karnataka government officially decided to withdraw the notification to acquire 1,777 acres of land in Channarayapatna hobli of Devanahalli taluk, ending a struggle that had become symbolic of grassroots resistance.
Farmers, overwhelmed with emotion, hugged each other as tears of joy streamed down their faces. Sweets were distributed among the community that had stood resolute against land acquisition for over three years.Addressing the media, farmers’ leader Badagalapura Nagendra expressed pride in the historic win:“Great leaders used to say Vidhana Soudha is a stone building; it has no life or sensitivity. But today, we have proven that perception wrong. We fought for our lands and won,” he said.Nagendra emphasized that farmers took a firm stand after witnessing the devastating impact of land acquisitions around Kempegowda International Airport, which left many without livelihoods.
CITU leader Varalakshmi highlighted the power of collective action:“This is the result when red (Left parties), blue (Ambedkarites), and green (farmers’ organisations) come together. Isolated struggles cannot achieve results; unity is the only way forward,” she stated.Dalit leader Guruprasad Keragodu echoed similar sentiments, praising the resilience of the farmers:“For 1,198 days, farmers resisted pressure, lures, and even harassment. Attempts were made to derail this movement, but artists, writers, and progressive voices united to support it. This victory creates new optimism,” he said.The Samyukta Horata Karnataka and Land Acquisition Resistance Struggle Committee, which spearheaded the protest, hailed the decision as a “victory for Karnataka.” The organisations issued a statement thanking Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for responding to public sentiment and ensuring justice.