Protesters barge into construction site, large contingent of police deployed in Vizhinjam

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The strike staged by the fishermen led by the Latin Archdiocese of Vizhinjam entered the fourth day. The protesters barged into the construction site in protest Friday morning. A tense situation prevails after the protesters toppled the barricades. A large contingent of police has been deployed in the area.

Meantime, the government has called the striking fishermen for talks. Thiruvananthapuram Latin Archdiocese has informed that they accept the government's invitation to attend the talks to be held this evening. Minister V Abdurahman who is in Delhi spoke to Vicar General Eugene Perera on the phone.

Eugene Perera has informed that they will not withdraw from the strike without getting a written assurance on the demands. A strong protest of fishermen is going on in front of the Vizhinjam port gate. The minister who is in Delhi will return today. The protesters demand that a comprehensive package be announced for the problems of the coastal zone.

Opposition leader V D Satheesan said the first issue to be brought in the assembly convened on August 22nd will be the grievances of the fishermen. The chief minister is requested to discuss and resolve it. Have assured the protestors to talk to the chief minister about this matter. Politics cannot be mixed in the protest. Satheesan said the fishermen's strike will be a success.