THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Health Minister K K Shailaja came to the fore harshly criticising the widespread protests witnessed in the state. The health minister warned that the results of the seven-month process should not be endangered and people should not be left to die en masse. The health minister also asked the leaders to make the protesters understand.

The virus in Kerala has undergone genetic mutation. A research has shown that the transmission capacity of the virus is more in the state. The hierarchical structure of the virus has been studied. So, should be very careful. However, the protests in the state are creating a major crisis. Thousands of people participating in the strike will lead to transmission of the disease. The protestors are violating the directive of the health department. This is a crime that requires severe punishment, he said.