Statewide Harthal Begins In Kerala Over Nithin Raj’s Death; Vehicles Blocked, Shops Shut
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: The statewide harthal began in Kerala on Tuesday, April 28, over the death of Kannur dental college student Nithin Raj. Called by various Dalit organisations seeking justice for the BDS student, the harthal is reportedly running strong, disrupting daily life and blocking vehicles across cities.
Activists are blocking vehicles in many parts of the state, including in the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram. Incidents of hartal supporters forcing shops to shut were also reported in various places. The hartal, which was announced more than a week ago, is being observed from 6 am to 6 pm today.
A total of 52 Dalit organisations, including the Justice for Nithin Raj Action Council declared the Harthal seeking justice for the dental student, who allegedly died after falling from the college building on Saturday, April 11. Nithin’s family alleged harassment from the college authorities, releasing audio clips and videos as evidences.
One of the audio clip revealed that the accused faculty members allegedly abused the dental student and mocked his mother while issuing violent threat.
The Action Council for Nithin Raj has alleged fuel play and sabotage attempt in the case, while claiming that Nithin Raj’s death was not suicide.
