The All India Kisan Khet Mazdoor Sangathan (AIKKMS) Gujarat unit has strongly condemned the state government's order denying irrigation water to farmers in the Saurashtra and Kutch regions, warning that the decision will prove to be a "disastrous blow" to farmers who are already reeling from power cuts and a deficient monsoon.
In a letter addressed to the Gujarat Agriculture Minister, AIKKMS Gujarat Coordinator Dr. Kanu Khadia stated that the government's directive comes at a time when farmers are pinning their sole hopes on the winter (rabi) crop. The letter pointed out that erratic electricity supply and less than 50 percent rainfall during the monsoon season have already caused widespread failure of the kharif crop.
'A Bolt from the Blue'
The farmers' body described the irrigation ban as "a bolt from the blue" for the agrarian community. The letter listed a series of what it called "lethal attacks" on farmers, including the encroachment on farmland for electricity poles, power cuts, new electricity bills, and the new seed law.
The AIKKMS further alleged that the current policy prioritizes industrial needs over agriculture. "On one hand, there is a complete ban on water for farmers; on the other hand, industrial houses are supplied with ample water without any restrictions," the letter stated. "Such discrimination is unacceptable."
The organization also expressed alarm over reports that the police are being deployed to prevent farmers from drawing water from the Sauni Yojana canal. The letter warned that any attempt to criminalize farmers seeking water for their fields would be "extremely dangerous."
A Region in Crisis
The government's decision comes amid a severe water crisis in the region. According to official data, districts including Devbhumi Dwarka, Porbandar, Jamnagar, and Kutch have recorded significant rainfall deficits, with some talukas receiving less than 10 percent of normal rainfall during the 2026 monsoon season . The state government had previously declared drought-like conditions in four districts, including Kutch and Devbhumi Dwarka.
The AIKKMS letter emphasized that the government has reserved the limited water available in dams solely for drinking purposes, leaving farmers with no recourse. "If this order is not withdrawn immediately, it will be a betrayal of the farmers who feed the nation," Dr. Khadia stated.
The farmers' body has demanded the immediate revocation of the order, insisting that irrigation water must be provided to save the rabi crop and the livelihoods of thousands of farming families in the region.
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