For farmers’ cause: Gote sticks to Sevagram, refuses Mumbai trip

The unseasonable rains and hailstorm had ruined the Kharif and Rabi crops in the State. This led to a series of suicides by the affected farmers in the region.

"I have chosen Sevagram for my agitation as Mahatma Gandhi, who advocated Gram Swaraj, launched a fresh freedom movement from here in the 30’s," he pointed out. He would not give up his fast-unto-death till the farmers’ problems were solved.

He said that if the Chief Minister was unable tocome to Sevagram to discuss the issue, he should depute someone with full authority to take decision. Gote began his fast on June 1 to press the farmers’ issues, including increase of compensation for the affected farm land. He made it clear that his agitation was not launched for a political motive. It was a mere attempt to highlight the cause of the poor farmers of the State, he said.