The dawn-to-dusk hartal called by the Left Democratic Front (LDF) in protest against the recent Supreme Court verdict on Ecologically Sensitive Zones (ESZ) was total in rural areas of the district on Monday. Shops and commercial establishments remained closed in 12 grama panchayats during the one-day protest that expressed solidarity with the farmers’ call for a thorough review of the existing order or the enactment of a new law to address concerns.
The hartal supporters, mostly comprising CPI(M) and Kerala Congress workers, also organised protest rallies in various locations expressing apprehension about the court order. They also said the fight would be intensified in such a way to protect farmers’ interest and their land.
LDF district convener Mukkam Mohamed said there was whole-hearted cooperation from all sections of farmers for the hartal irrespective of their political affiliations. “The issue is affecting all sections of farmers, and that a united protest unmindful of minor political differences alone will help in finding a lasting solution to the issue,” he said.
