Stephan Kayyar
Daijiworld Media Network – Kasargod (RJP)

Kasargod, Apr 8: Kerala bandh called by several organizations on Wednesday April 8 condemning the 'anti-people' policies of the state and the central governments, has received good response in Kasargod district.

The bandh has been jointly called by the pro-Left Karshaka Samiti, fisheries coordination committee and the Motor Workers Samyukta Samara Samiti, demanding that the government resolve various issues relating to farmers, withdrawal of the Meenakumari Commission report on deep-sea fishing, and in protest against the hike in third party insurance premium of vehicles.

The bandh was total in Kasargod with buses coming to a complete halt. Only a few private vehicles could be seen on the road. The bandh has been called between 6 am to 6 pm. Examinations which were supposed to be held on April 8 have been postponed.

Police have taken strict measures to ensure a peaceful bandh. No buses including Kerala state transport buses are operating. Most people have preferred to stay indoors.

Motor workers' union as well as fishermen association have supported the bandh. Merchants' association has supported the bandh and hence shops are completely closed.

No unpleasant events have been reported so far. Left parties and their supporters held a protest rally in the morning. Without transport it has been tough for people to move around. Passengers who reached the railway station in the morning faced much inconvenience in the absence of public transport, and police buses came to their rescue and transported them to their destinations.

Not much attendance could be seen in offices. People attending wedding and other functions have been held up. In short, normal life has been severely hit during the bandh in Kasargod.