Stephan Kayyar

Daijiworld Media Network – Kasargod (EP)

Kasargod, Jan 31: Endosulfan victims and their families protested in front of Thiruvananthapuram secretariat on Tuesday, January 30 demanding implementation of their demands.

As many as 250 people from 60 families in Kasargod took part in the protests.

They protested against the unfair short listing of victims and non-payment of compensation.

The campaign committee alleged that not even half of the victims have been paid compensation despite Supreme Court orders. Rehabilitation and medical treatment facilities are also not made available.

“As many as 1,905 endosulfan victims were identified in special medical examinations held on April 17, 2017. The list was later cut down to 287. Hundreds of genuine victims were left out. Therefore, suitable action should be taken against those who were responsible for it. The government should stop being indifferent towards the victims,” were some of the demands of the protesters.

Environment activist Dayabai led the protests. CPI leader Bonoy Vishwam, Zubair Paduppu, Ambalattara Kunhi Krishnan spoke. Kasargod MLA N A Nellikunnu and others visited the spot and assured support to the protests.

Minister assures of meeting of victims next week

The state government which realized that the protests are becoming intense has called a meeting to fulfill the demands of victims and solve their problems. The minister of revenue, E Chandrashekaran who visited the spot of protests, gave the assurance. The minister said that discussions will be held about the demands and the government is taking initiative about the victims.

The campaign committee has warned of indefinite fast and protests from March 15 if their demands are not met.