THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Minister E P Jayarajan has come forward denying the people’s protest at Alappad in Kollam against illegal mining. “Anyone can stage a protest in Kerala if they have one flag and two men. I came to know about the protest from news channels. I am not yet aware of the demands of the protesters. Government is ready to hear their demands. However, mining will not be stopped.

“Mining in Alappad is legal. KMMLMD has conducted an investigation on this. Both companies will continue mining. The protesters are trying to destroy public sector mining. No political parties at Alappad has pointed out this issue”, said minister.