Vizhinijam Violence
Kerala Police station attacked the Adani port protest ( Vizhinijam Violence ).
Adani port protests –
More than 80 were wounded in the latest clash to halt the project in India’s Kerala.
What’s happened?
A violent mob attacked the Vizhinjam police station, situated 20 Km away from the capital Thiruvananthapuram, As part of the ongoing protest against the under-construction Adani port. As many as 36 policemen and around 20 agitators were injured in the violence, which rocked the Vizhinjam region on Sunday night. The Kerala Police on Monday filed cases against more than 3,000 people, including women and children, After a huge crowd allegedly attacked a police station, demanding the release of those held for protest against the under-construction Adani port.
The Kerala police on Monday filed cases against more than 3,000 people, including women and children. The protestors had on Saturday allegedly blocked trucks carrying construction material to the port project site.
What is the Vizhinjam Port project?
The foundation stone of the Rs 7,525 crore port, being built under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model with Adani ports private Limited at Vizhinjam near Thiruvananthapuram, Was laid by then Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy in December 2015. It has since missed its completion deadline. The port is to have 30 berths and will be able to handle giant “Megamax” container ships. The Adani group has said the ultramodern port, located close to major international shipping routes, will boost India’s economy. Its location is also of strategic importance, the project’s supporters have claimed.
Why are Fishermen Protesting?
Fisherfolk has been protesting against the project for the past four months, alleging that its construction is causing massive sea erosion, taking away their livelihood and dwellings. They want an impact study conducted and the project to remain suspended until the study report comes out.
The community has also put forward six other demands –
1. Rehabilitation of families who lost their homes to sea erosion.
2. Effective steps to mitigate coastal erosion.
3. Financial assistance to fisherfolk on days weather warnings are issued.
4. Compensation to families of those who lose their lives in fishing accidents.
5. Subsidised kerosene.
The kerosene subsidy has been demanded by claiming that because of the project, fishermen have to venture deeper into the ocean for the catch, increasing the fuel cost burden.
Communal Divide –
While the fishermen’s protests are being supported by the Latin catholic church, a local people’s action committee is demanding speedy completion of the project. This committee has the backing of various Hindu community outfits like the upper caste Nair service society, besides OBC Hindu organizations like the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yoga.
