Deliberate attempt to create riot in the name of Vizhinjam protests: Minister Antony Raju

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Minister Antony Raju said that people are deliberately trying to create riots in the name of Vizhinjam protests. “No one should attempt to disturb the peace and serene atmosphere of the state by creating conflict. The protesters should understand the reality and behave likewise”, Minister said.

“There is no other protest where the police and the government have maintained such self-restraint. Don't consider it as a weakness. The government has done everything possible to end the protests,” he added.

Meanwhile, the police registered case against the Vizhinjam port protesters in the clash that occurred the other day. Nine cases have been registered against the strike committee protesting against the construction and one case has been registered against the people's strike committee supporting the construction of the port under charges of attempt to murder, call for riots and conspiracy. Archbishop of Latin Catholic Diocese Dr Thomas J Netto has been named as the first accused and auxiliary bishop Dr R Christhudas is the second accused. More than 50 priests including them have been charged in the FIR.

The general convener of the strike committee, Fr Eugene Pereira, accused that the government is trying to suppress the protesters. He said that they will file appeal tomorrow against the court verdict in favour of Adani group for the construction of the port.