THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: V Sivankutty, the Minister for General Education and Labour, has said that the Vizhinjam strike committee, which is protesting against the port project, is trying to instigate riots. He also alleged that the protesters were committing acts of violence against the police.

“Boats and nets are being burnt to create an atmosphere of terror in the area. It is a dangerous move to drag the former archbishop Soosa Pakiam, who is undergoing treatment, into the struggle. If there is any problem with his health, the entire responsibility lies with the strike committee.”, the minister said.

Ports Minister Ahamed Devarkovil has urged the concerned parties to call off the Vizhinjam strike. “Timely completion of the Vizhinjam port project is a common need of Kerala. Those concerned should understand the benefits to the state and immediately prepare to withdraw the strike and join the development path of the country. About 30 percent of India’s cargo traffic is handled through Vizhinjam international shipping channel, but at present a major portion of cargo traffic is handled from Colombo. It is assumed that the country suffers a loss of Rs 2000 crores per year due to this”, the minister said.

At the same time, Adani Group informed the High Court that the order to provide police protection for the construction of Vizhinjam port was not implemented. The contempt pleas of Adani and the contract company will be heard on Friday.