UDF Walkout Highlights Urgent Safety Concerns for Kerala Fishers at Muthalapozhi

In a significant protest, the Congress-led UDF walked out of the Kerala Assembly on June 24, condemning the government’s failure to ensure fisher safety at Muthalapozhi harbour, a site of numerous fishing boat capsizes and fatalities. Fisheries Minister Saji Cherian outlined efforts to address the harbour’s silting issue, promising a permanent solution within 18 months.

Despite his assurances, Speaker A.N. Shamseer’s refusal to permit an adjournment motion prompted the walkout. The Opposition criticised the government for inadequate dredging and alleged leniency towards Adani Ports, which has missed multiple deadlines. The crisis has resulted in 29 deaths at the harbour mouth and 73 in nearby areas, pressing the need for immediate, effective action.