THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Labour Minister V Sivankutty has responded to the two-day strike taking place in the state. According to the minister, the violence that broke out in the state in connection with the nationwide strike were isolated incidents.

"Isolated incidents should not be exaggerated. Emphasis should be on a fierce strike that was taking place in the state," the minister said.

"The strike is not being led by the ruling party of any state. It is being led by 12 national-level trade unions and 32 state-level trade unions. The country is facing several problems including rising fuel prices, unemployment and inflation. The strike is being held to force the Centre to address these issues. This is not a strike that affects the people," Sivankutty said.