Foreign funding for Vizhinjam protest? IB collects information

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Central Intelligence Bureau (IB) has started an investigation on the suspicion that 10 voluntary organizations in the coastal region, which are providing indirect support to the ongoing strike led by the Latin Archdiocese obstructing the construction of the Vizhinjam port, are receiving foreign funds. This follows the allegation that the extreme strike, which is continuing despite the court verdict, police action and government intervention, is aimed at sabotaging the Vizhinjam project for the sake of foreign ports.

The agitation started when the construction of the port was nearing its final stage. The IB started collecting information collection based on the complaint filed by Trivandrum Chamber of Commerce and Industry President SN Raghuchandran Nair to Union Home Minister Amit Shah against the strike.

In his complaint, Raghuchandran Nair alleged that a foreign lobby centred on Dubai, Sri Lanka and China is behind the strike. He also attached hate speeches delivered at the protest site and various documents with the complaint.

IB is checking the bank accounts of certain organizations and suspicious individuals. Some are under observation. Officials came for secret surveillance in areas, including Vizhinjam and Muthalappozhi.

The officials are observing those who come to the protest site and the speeches they deliver. They are also secretly capturing pictures of suspicious persons. The Home Ministry is taking the protest very seriously as it is a matter of national interest.

In the scope of inquiry

• Are those supporting the agitation receiving foreign funding?
• Is the agitation destroying the social atmosphere?
• Is the agitation organised by violating the provisions of the law?
• Are the protesters destroying law and order in the area?

Kudankulam model

The IB investigation had found that some people who had supported the agitation against the Kudankulam nuclear power plant in Tamil Nadu had received foreign funds. Some organizations have alleged that the same model is being used here. The IB is also examining the strike committee's insistence that the construction of the port should be stopped despite the state government accepting their various demands.

Port construction so far

• 100 days since construction was stopped
• 200 crore- Loss on interest
• Spent 4000 crores so far
• 75 percent of construction is complete
• Aimed to complete by May 2023