Central Government Grants Approval for Ethanol Production from Sugarcane Juice Amidst Yatnal-Karnataka Government Clash

New Delhi/Kalaburagi, August 30 – In a significant development, the central government has granted approval for the production of ethanol from sugarcane juice, providing a major boost to BJP MLA Basangouda Patil Yatnal. This decision comes amid an ongoing tussle between Yatnal and the Karnataka state government over the reopening of his Siddhasiri Sugar and Ethanol Factory in Chincholi, Kalaburagi district.

The Siddhasiri factory, owned by Yatnal, was shut down by the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) four months ago due to alleged violations, including the production of ethanol without prior approval and discharging waste into the river. Despite a court order directing the state government to allow the factory to reopen, the KSPCB has yet to grant the necessary permissions, leading to a prolonged standoff between Yatnal and state authorities.

The central government's recent approval for ethanol production from sugarcane juice, a move previously hindered by sugar shortages, has been hailed as a "bumper gift" for Yatnal. The Ministry of Food and Public Distribution's decision provides a green light to sugar factory owners, including Yatnal, to proceed with ethanol production, potentially revitalizing operations at the Siddhasiri factory.

Yatnal, who took the matter to the High Court after the factory's closure, had also staged a protest at the KSPCB office earlier this week, demanding immediate action. The court had instructed the state to facilitate the reopening of the factory, but the pollution control board has remained unyielding.

The controversy has sparked widespread protests in Chincholi, with farmer organizations and BJP supporters rallying against the state government's refusal to grant approval for the factory's operations. Thousands of farmers participated in a large protest march from Ambedkar Circle to Basaveshwara Circle, demanding justice for Yatnal and the reopening of the Siddhasiri factory.

As tensions between Yatnal and the Karnataka government continue to escalate, the central government's approval for ethanol production may prove to be a pivotal factor in resolving the ongoing dispute.