Tensions flared in Yadgir, Karnataka, today as police personnel struggled to manage a volatile crowd of protestors opposing the release of water from the Basava Sagara reservoir. The demonstration, led by BJP activists and local farmers, turned chaotic around 4 PM when hundreds gathered near the reservoir in Narayanpur, Hunsagi taluk, demanding a halt to the water release into the Krishna River.

The protestors, incensed by the Karnataka government’s decision to release water amid concerns over local irrigation needs, breached police barricades and stormed the reservoir gates. Some climbed atop vehicles, while others hurled stones, injuring at least two officers. Eyewitnesses reported a bulldozer among the crowd, amplifying the unrest. Police responded with a mild lathi-charge and detained several agitators, including key BJP organizers, to restore order.

The Basava Sagara reservoir, with a capacity of 37.965 tmcft, irrigates over 4.21 lakh hectares across Yadgir, Kalaburagi, Bijapur, and Raichur districts. Farmers argue that the release—reportedly 68,810 cusecs as of last week—threatens their rabi season crops, especially paddy, amid a dry spell. “We’re forced to watch our fields dry while water flows away,” said a protestor, echoing widespread frustration.

District authorities defended the release, citing the need to maintain safe reservoir levels after recent inflows. “We’re balancing irrigation and flood prevention,” an official stated. By evening, additional police reinforcements stabilized the situation, but the clash underscores the deepening water management crisis in the region.