Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Mar 22: The Malpe fishing harbour here is beefed with police security on Saturday as fishermen are set to stage protests following the assault of a woman accused of stealing fish and the arrest of fisherfolk. The incident resulted in the arrest of five fishermen involved in the altercation.

With thousands of fishing boats docked, the usually bustling fish auction center remained completely inactive. Fishermen’s associations will hold demonstrations, demanding justice and action from the authorities.

Additional police forces are deployed to maintain law and order. The fishermen will put forth several demands, including enhanced security and better infrastructure at the harbour. They will also urge the government to withdraw certain cases filed against the arrested individuals.

Meanwhile, the protestors have condemned the spread of misinformation about the incident, calling it an unfair portrayal of the fishing community. The unrest had a broader impact, as businesses across Malpe, including hotels, shops, and markets, shut down in solidarity.