Kerala Government Passes Resolution Against Deep-Sea Mining; Fishermen Stage 24-Hour Strike, Plan Parliament Protest. Center-State Conflict May Intensify.
Kerala Politics: The Kerala Legislative Assembly on Tuesday (March 4, 2025) passed a resolution opposing the central government's decision to allow deep-sea mining for minerals. The resolution, introduced by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, urged the Centre to revoke its decision.
Resolution Passed Amidst Uproar
The resolution was passed amidst protests and uproar from opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) MLAs. The UDF accused the Assembly Speaker of bias and staged a walkout. The commotion prevented any detailed discussion before the resolution's passage.
Kerala Government Supports Fishermen
The Kerala government had previously made it clear that it would never permit deep-sea mining off the state's coast. The government claims this decision will severely impact the state's fishing community and has repeatedly raised objections with the Centre.
Opposition Accuses Government of Double Standards
The UDF refused to support the resolution, alleging that the Left government secretly supports the mining policy. The Congress-led UDF stated it would separately protest the central government's decision.
Major Protest by Fishermen
Fishermen's organizations have also opposed the central government's decision. Recently, under the banner of the Kerala Fisheries Coordination Committee, fishermen observed a 24-hour strike, impacting coastal fish markets and the fishing industry.
Fishermen's organizations state that the central government has decided to auction sand blocks for offshore mining in five areas—Kollam South, Kollam North, Alappuzha, Ponnani, and Chavakkad. To intensify their protest, the committee has announced a march to Parliament on March 12th.
