Lakshadweep residents sit on hunger strike against administrative reforms

Cutting across party lines, people in Lakshadweep staged 12-hour hunger strike on Monday against the new administrative reforms. The strike marked the first time agitation in the history of Lakshadweep.

Ernakulam: Agitating against the new administrative reforms, introduced by the new administrator Praful Khoda Patel, people in Lakshadweep staged a 12-hour hunger strike on Monday. Cutting across party lines, the protest led by Save Lakshadweep Forum witnessed massive participation. The Bharatiya Janata Party faction on the island also took part in the protest. The strike marked the first time agitation in the history of Lakshadweep.

Leaders of the Save Lakshadweep Forum had said that the protest would be intensified if a favourable decision is not taken. As the visitors' pass got expired, many, including workers, have returned from the island, added one of the leaders. The statement was made after an all-party meeting in Kochi.

All shops except medical shops were closed. The administration had instructed medical staff to be vigilant. Necessary arrangements were also made for emergencies. In order to hold the protest, committees were formed under the leadership of the district panchayath.

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