Thodupuzha: A hartal supporter who had been blocking vehicles in Thodupuzha was stopped by a local youth while attempting to leave the area on his bike. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning, and a video of the confrontation has since surfaced.

The hartal, called in protest against the death of Nithin Raj, a student of Kannur Anjarakkandi Dental College, saw disruptions in several areas. According to reports, the supporter had arrived on a motorcycle near the Thodupuzha Private Bus Stand and proceeded to stop multiple vehicles, including two-wheelers.

After the disruption, he was preparing to leave when he was confronted by Sharath, a young man who witnessed the incident. Sharath questioned him, preventing him from leaving and stating that he would call the police. He further told the supporter that if he wished to block vehicles, he should do so by foot rather than using a vehicle himself.

The confrontation continued for some time until police arrived at the scene. Sharath reiterated his objections in front of the officers. The hartal supporter, in turn, demanded that Sharath be arrested for questioning him. However, the police did not take any action against Sharath.

 

The hartal, organised by various Dalit organisations and the Nithin Raj Action Council, is held from 6 am to 6 pm. It was called to demand clarity over the circumstances surrounding Nithin Raj’s death, the filing of murder charges against those responsible, and other demands including ₹10 crore compensation for the family, cancellation of the college’s affiliation, legislation to end caste discrimination in educational institutions, and the dismissal of the Kannur SP.