26 May,2026 01:59 PM IST | | mid-day online correspondent
Onion farmers in Chandvad, Nashik have taken an aggressive stance and launched a strong protest. Pic/ Screengrab
The Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) staged a protest in Nashik on Tuesday over the sharp fall in onion prices, intensifying its agitation across Maharashtra over the crisis affecting farmers.
Opposition leaders Rohit Pawar, Harshwardhan Sapkal and Ambadas Danve led the farmers' protest in Chandvad, Nashik, demanding immediate government intervention. The leaders were detained by police during the demonstration and later released.
Meanwhile, the Congress has announced a large-scale ârasta roko jan aakrosh' protest in Solapur under the leadership of MLA Praniti Sushilkumar Shinde, aiming to step up pressure on the government over the declining onion prices.
While speaking to reporters, NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar faction) MLA Rohit Pawar referred to earlier protests over onion prices, saying that similar agitation in the past had led to policy changes, including a reduction in export duty in 2023.
He said that farmers are currently facing a severe crisis, with onions being sold at as low as Rs 1-2 per kg in some markets, which has caused widespread distress among growers. Referring to a protest held in Lasalgaon on May 18, he said the agitation was aimed at highlighting the falling prices.
Rohit Pawar also criticised the government, alleging that while pre-election assurances were made regarding better onion rates, the current procurement rates being offered are inadequate. He claimed that farmers are being offered around Rs 12.50 per kg, calling it unfair in the present situation.
He further stated that the MVA parties collectively staged protests, including road blockades in Chandvad, which he said contributed to the government revising the procurement price to Rs 15 per kg (Rs 1,580 per quintal).
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Fadnavis said a meeting on onion farmers' issues will be held on Tuesday evening, alleging that some leaders are staging protests merely for "photo opportunities". He said both the state and central governments are discussing the issue and added that the onion price has been fixed at Rs 15 per kg.
