Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala is witnessing a statewide hartal today following the tragic death of BDS student Nithin Raj, with protests intensifying across the state. The dawn-to-dusk shutdown, from 6 AM to 6 PM, has been called by an action council representing 52 Dalit and Adivasi organizations, demanding swift justice and accountability.
The protesters are pressing for the immediate arrest of those allegedly responsible, including faculty members, along with key demands such as the implementation of the Rohith Vemula Act, ₹10 crore compensation for the victim’s family, and the cancellation of the dental college’s affiliation.
While organizers have urged people to support a peaceful hartal without forcefully stopping vehicles, the shutdown has triggered a sharp response from the Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samithi. The traders’ body has openly opposed the protest, stating that the investigation is progressing properly and noting that a court has already rejected the anticipatory bail plea of the prime accused.
Defying the hartal call, the association announced that shops and businesses across Kerala will remain open, setting the stage for a day of tension between protest groups and the trading community.
