Road blockades and protests reported across districts; essential services largely continue
Thiruvananthapuram, April 28 (H.S.): A dawn-to-dusk hartal called by various Dalit and Adivasi organisations in Kerala on Tuesday disrupted normal life in several parts of the state, with transport services affected due to road blockades and protest demonstrations.
The bandh, observed from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., was supported by around 52 organisations demanding justice in the death of dental student Nithin Raj.
Despite initial assurances of a peaceful protest, incidents of road obstruction were reported from multiple districts. In the state capital Thiruvananthapuram, protestors blocked KSRTC buses at Thampanoor, staging sit-ins that led to traffic congestion. Similar disruptions were reported from Adoor in Pathanamthitta district and Pazhayangadi in Kannur.
Police intervened in several locations to disperse protestors and restore traffic movement. In Adoor Central Junction, activists who blocked vehicles, including a KSRTC bus, were detained. In Thiruvalla, protestors briefly stopped a vehicle carrying a cancer patient and another transporting medicines, allowing them to proceed after verification.
Kannur also witnessed demonstrations, with protestors staging a sit-in at Caltex Junction and blocking vehicular movement before being removed by police.
Services Largely Operational
Despite disruptions in transport, trade bodies such as the Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samithi and the Hotel and Restaurant Association stated that shops would remain open, as organisers had clarified that there would be no forced shutdown. Private bus operators also continued services.
Key Demands
Protestors have put forward key demands, including strict action against those responsible for Nithin Raj’s death, ₹10 crore compensation for his family, and cancellation of the affiliation of Ancharakandi Dental College in Kannur.
Police remain on high alert across Kerala to prevent any escalation and ensure law and order.
(With inputs from H.S.) Inputs & Images courtesy: Hindusthan Samachar (H.S.)
Edited by: Dikshita Bollu
Last Updated on: Tuesday, April 28, 2026 3:54 pm by Bollu Dikshitha | Published by: Bollu Dikshitha on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 3:54 pm | News Categories: India
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