Devanahalli Farmers’ 1,198-Day Protest: A Potential Precedent for Change

Quick Summary:

• Farmers from 13 villages in Devanahalli taluk protested for 1,198 days against the acquisition of 1,777 acres of farmland for an Aerospace Park.
• The protest began on April 4,2022,as farmers resisted the preliminary notification issued that year.
• Resistance expanded with various progressive organizations joining and observing ‘Devanahalli chalo’ protests on June 25, leading to increased pressure on the government.
• Final notification of land acquisition was issued in April 2025; partial shelving (3 out of the total villages) happened earlier but was rejected by farmers.
• Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met with farmers and promised a decision within ten days on July 4; eventually, he announced complete shelving of the land acquisition process on July 15.
• Observers note this struggle created awareness about land-losers’ plight and brought national-level attention to broader issues like pragmatic land policies and balancing industrialization with agriculture.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
The enduring resistance by Devanahalli farmers exemplifies how local struggles can influence state-level policies when sustained over time through grit and support from broader civil society networks. The Karnataka governmentS decision to shelve this particular project reflects growing awareness about striking a balance between agricultural livelihoods and industrial growth needs-a tension increasingly debated nationwide amid expanding urbanization.

This episode also underscores calls for robust policy frameworks regarding equitable compensation, land-use planning tailored to specific industrial needs, and inclusive definitions of development focusing on harmonious coexistence between industry growth and agricultural sustainability. By setting a precedent for othre protests around India concerning forced acquisitions or unjust compensations, such cases could reshape future public discourse about compliance mechanisms tied to mega projects.

Read more at: The Hindu