Chikkamagaluru farmer attempts suicide near Vidhana Soudha over compensation dispute

Bengaluru: A farmer from Chikkamagaluru district allegedly attempted suicide by hanging himself from a tree inside the Vidhana Soudha premises in Bengaluru on Tuesday, claiming that he had not received compensation for land acquired by the authorities.

The farmer, identified as Vishu Kumar from Haliyur village in Chikkamagaluru district, was rescued in time due to the prompt intervention of police personnel deployed at the high-security government complex.

According to police sources, Vishu Kumar had reached the Vidhana Soudha premises on Tuesday afternoon and allegedly tried to hang himself from a tree using a green scarf. Security personnel stationed nearby noticed his actions and immediately intervened, preventing the tragedy. He was subsequently taken to a police station for questioning and counselling.

Sources said this was not the first time the farmer had staged a protest at the location. In 2025, he had reportedly attempted to cut down the same tree to draw attention to his grievances regarding pending compensation for land acquired by the government.

Speaking to reporters, Vishu Kumar alleged that his land had been taken over by the authorities, but compensation had not yet been paid. He further claimed that a court had directed the Chikkamagaluru Deputy Commissioner to resolve the matter and ensure payment within four weeks. However, despite three months having passed since the order, he said no compensation had been received.

The farmer also alleged that he had cultivated sandalwood trees on the acquired land and that officials were planning to cut them down without issuing the required notices. He claimed that he had not been adequately informed about the process.

The incident has once again highlighted concerns over delays in compensation payments related to land acquisition projects. Authorities are expected to examine the farmer’s claims and take appropriate action in accordance with legal procedures.