Thiruvananthapuram: Civil Police Officer (CPO) rank holders staged a protest in front of the secretariat, expressing frustration over the government’s inaction following a 25-day indefinite strike, leading to a conflict yesterday.
Peaceful protesters, including candidates who had been fasting for two days, were met with force as police intervened, waving lathis. Two candidates sustained injuries during the clash, and eight individuals were arrested and removed from the scene. Despite repeated attempts to engage with the authorities, including contacting the chief minister’s office for discussion, permission for discussion was denied. After this, around 500 candidates were lying across the road on both sides.
Among the demonstrators are individuals holding significant positions within Left organisations and the Left Democratic Front (LDF) party itself. One protestor, a member of the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) and the CPI(M), expressed disappointment with the party’s failure to support their cause. Financial constraints were cited by the government as the reason for their inability to hire. He said that he would not renew the party membership. Then he added, “If this is the action from the party that I believe in, then why should I stay with the party?”
Refusing to back down, the candidates vowed to continue their strike until they were granted a discussion with the authorities. Many expressed their determination to camp outside the secretariat until their demands are met, even if it means risking their lives.
With only 37 days remaining before the CPO rank list expires, the youth involved in the protest are anxious for resolution. Their protest has garnered support from various sectors, including prominent figures in art, culture, and politics. Yesterday, filmmaker Akhil Marar publicly extended his solidarity to the candidates. They protested in front of the secretariat by holding a receipt they received as a reply to the complaint they made in Nava Kerala Sadas.
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