CM says that even opposition doubts outside intervention in Vizhinjam protests

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, while speaking in the legislative assembly said that not only the government but also the opposition and the people doubt that there was outside intervention in the anti-Vizhinjam Port protests that turned violent.

The CM was replying to a resolution brought by the opposition.

He said that the protest committee do not share the general policy of the Latin Church. It must be doubted that some outside forces are controlling the leaders of the protests. The people will also doubt when the protest committee do not reflect the stand of the Latin Church.

The CM reminded that K Babu, who was minister during the UDF government, had told the assembly that the central government was asked if any outside support is there for those protesting at Vizhinjam.

Pinarayi Vijayan added that the demand to stop the construction was illogical and cannot be accepted. The government is adamant that the construction must progress. Also, the accusation that the government did not implement the UDF compensation plan of Rs.47 crores is baseless.

The CM said that even if anyone tries to create mischief the government has acted with restraint. The restraint and calm that the police exhibited during the violence is exemplary. Another accusation is that a case was filed against the bishop. However, it is not the government which decides who must be charged and who all should not be charged. The law and courts of this country do not work by looking at the identity of a person. Everyone who were involved in giving the call for the protests must be charged and some cannot be left off from the case.

Cases were charged against those persons including some priests in contempt of court case filed by Adani Group after the protest committee violated the HC order not to obstruct the port construction.

He also said that there was another accusation that central forces will be brought here. According to the contract with Adani Group, the government is responsible to provide security as demanded by the construction company. That was why the government did not oppose Adani Group’s demand.