Tiruvannamalai Collector to head fast if cane dues are not paid

He initiated the move after farmers complained that a Polur based private sugar mill had not disbursed cane dues which amounted Rs.11.50 crores for over eight months.

Farmers demanded that action be taken against the sugar mill through court, also they placed a request to be allowed to supply cane to cooperative sugar mills in the district. 

Lack of payment has lead farmers being unable to repay farm loans. As a result, banks are in turn pressurizing farmers to repay dues immediately.

The collector contacted the respective private sugar mill management over phone as he could not get any assurance from the mill representative present in the meeting. After the negotiation, the collector informed the gathering that dues would be settled on or before October 25. 

When farmers demanded immediate payment, a banner announcing the leadership of collector Kandaswamy  in support of the demand on September 28 was released.

Kandasamy then informed the assembled farmers that if the dues were not paid by October 25, he would lead a fast in front of the mill. He added that if the mill is sealed, it will not result in unpaid dues. Following this, the farmers dispersed.