Thiruvananthapuram: The strike called by the trade unions continues in the state. Vehicles were widely blocked by protesters at various places. Thiruvananthapuram: Two auto drivers were beaten up by strikers at Pappanamkode. The assault took place in Nadu Road while the police were watching. One was injured in the head and the other in the shoulder and arm.
Passengers were taken out of the car by the strikers. The road has been replaced by more police. Despite being told to go to the hospital, the auto driver was beaten. It is alleged that the protesters threatened to blow up the house if they came with a vehicle.
Meanwhile, a scuffle broke out between BJP activists and protesters in Kattakada. The problems were caused by the arrangement of chairs across the road at the venue of the public meeting. BJP workers demanded that the chair be changed and freedom of movement be allowed. But the strikers did not give in. With this, protesters and BJP activists were organizing on both sides of the road. Police are camping in the area.
Leaders had earlier said they would not block private vehicles during the strike, but protesters blocked private vehicles at Pravachambalam. And on the Parashala National Highway
Protesters blocked private vehicles. Debt markets are closed. Trade unions have been staging protests in various places.
With the suspension of KSRTC services in many places, the strike is heading towards a hartal-like situation. Although KSRTC is operating services to some places under police protection, there are indications that they will have to be stopped due to strong protests. The strikers blocked people from entering jobs in some establishments.
The two-day national strike is in protest of the central government’s policies affecting workers, farmers and ordinary people.