SFI protest: Governor faces Black flag protest along the road in Idukki

THODUPUZHA: Workers of SFI and DYFI waved black flags along the road against Governor Arif Mohammad Khan who came to Idukki to participate in the program of Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samithi KVVES on the hartal day. The protest was held at eight places within three kilometres from the district border Achankavala to Thodupuzha. However, the governor passed by waving and smiling at the protesters.

The police forcefully removed those who showed the black flag. Meanwhile, a policeman's hand was injured in the commotion at one place. Black banners with slogans against the Governor were hoisted at various places in Thodupuzha town. The first protest was when the Governor reached Achankavala at 10:50 am. The police arrested two SFI workers who came with black flags in their pockets at the premises of the Merchant Trust Hall where the traders' program was held.

After the program, the protesters waved black flags at Aanakkood Junction when the governor went to the Rest House at 12:20 and returned at 12:40. There was no police there so the governor's vehicle was blocked for a few moments. A heavy police presence was established for the security of the governor.

The LDF Idukki District Committee had announced a Raj Bhavan march to protest against the Governor's action of not signing the Land Amendment Bill. The governor also announced that he would reach Idukki to participate in the traders' event. Following this, the LDF called for a hartal in Idukki.

Governor got out of the car

When he reached the main road while returning to Rest House after inaugurating the Traders' Family Security Scheme, the Governor got out of the car and greeted the people including the children who were waiting for him. He returned after spending about a minute with them. Governor had a 10-minute meeting with BJP leaders at Rest House.