THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala legislative assembly proceedings stalled for the fourth consecutive day over Sabarimala issue. Three UDF MLAs started an indefinite hunger strike outside the assembly hall demanding withdrawal of Prohibitory order and basic amenities for devotees in Sabarimala.

The opposition leader had earlier said that they would co-operate with assembly proceedings. But minutes later, there was war of words between the Chief Minister and Chennithala which was followed by the opposition leaders raising a banner in front of the Speaker.

The chaotic situation forced the Speaker to wrap up the proceedings in 21 minutes. The protests had started after the CM said that Congress and BJP have friendship ties.

The speaker tried to continue the proceedings despite the protest. Meanwhile the loud protests agitated a section of MLAs from LDF, who ran down the hall to face the protestors. Ministers V.S. Sunil Kumar and A.K Saseendran had to intervene to stop them.

“Nobody should try to gain something by disrespecting the chair. It’s not right to stall the aseembly proceedings over petty subjects”, said Speaker P. Ramakrishnan. The opposition leaders marched sloganeering towards entrance after the assembly was adjourned. The hunger strike of three UDF legislators was inaugurated by the opposition leader which was followed by Umman Chandy’s speech. The members of the opposition stayed late into night with the hunger strike protestors.