Archive · 22 Jul 2026
Koppal Farmers Protest Baldota Factory Over Water Access
In the drought-hit Koppal district of Karnataka, farmers are very upset because there is no water in the local lakes.
They found out that a nearby factory, Baldota Iron and Steel, has a big lake with water.
The farmers protested and even went into the factory to ask for the water to be shared with the public.
One farmer even jumped into the lake to show how desperate they are.
The local authorities promised to help, but the factory has filed cases against the farmers for entering their property.
This problem has been going on for a while because the farmers are unhappy that the government took their farmland to give to the factory.
The Supreme Court decided in favor of the factory, but the farmers still feel it's not fair.
Farmers in drought-hit Koppal district protested at Baldota Iron and Steel Factory demanding access to a 22-acre lake within the factory premises.
One farmer jumped into the lake to exhibit his frustration against the factory and the government.
The protest was called off after the Deputy Commissioner assured to address the farmers' water woes.
Baldota company has filed cases against the farmers for illegal trespassing, assault, and threatening staff.
The land acquisition for the factory has been a long-standing issue, with the Supreme Court upholding the government's decision in May 2026.
- Who
- Drought-hit farmers in Koppal district and Baldota Iron and Steel Factory
- What
- Protest by farmers demanding public access to a 22-acre lake within the factory premises
- When
- Tuesday (specific date not mentioned)
- Where
- Koppal district, Karnataka
- Why
- Severe drought has left local lakes dry, while the factory's lake still has water; farmers oppose land acquisition for industrial purposes
Farmers' Perspective
Baldota Company's Perspective
Land Acquisition
Farmers' Perspective
Farmers oppose the government's acquisition of prime farmland for industrial purposes, arguing it disrupts their livelihoods.
Baldota Company's Perspective
The Baldota company, supported by the Supreme Court, asserts its right to the acquired land for industrial expansion.
Water Access
Farmers' Perspective
Farmers demand access to the 22-acre lake within the factory premises to alleviate the severe drought conditions.
Baldota Company's Perspective
The company has filed cases against the farmers for illegal trespassing, assault, and threatening staff, maintaining that the lake is private property.
- Location
- Koppal, Karnataka
- Date of Protest
- Tuesday (specific date not mentioned)
- Lake Size
- 22 acres
- Land Acquired by KIADB
- 1000 acres (revenue land) + 2400 acres (agricultural land)
- Supreme Court Decision
- May 2026, upheld government's land acquisition
- Compensation for Land Acquisition
- ₹ 54,000 crore