United to fight LDF, Opposition battle each other instead

Both groups had gathered before secretariat to protest against LDF government Tension ensued after BJYM workers allegedly raised slogans against YC activists Police had to resort to caning and water cannons to douse protesters 

The stand-off between Youth Congress (YC) and Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) in front of Kerala secretariat to stage protest against LDF government on their first anniversary turned violent on Thursday. Tension ensued after BJYM activists allegedly raised slogans against YC workers. 

A tensed atmosphere prevailed at Secretariat area after activists of both outfits had assembled before the gate on Wednesday night. Both groups had planned for a siege that began at 6 am coinciding with the first anniversary celebrations of LDF government on Thursday. 

A minor conflict broke out between groups on Wednesday night regarding sharing of space before the Secretariat gate. However, leaders managed to sort this out by allotting one-half of the space to each of the groups. In anticipation of any potential conflict, the police had set up barricades. 

Though the protests were organised against LDF Government’s alleged failure on various fronts the main slogan was against political violence in Kannur. 

The situation became tense after activists of both groups started throwing stones and bottles at each other. Though leaders as well as police intervened and attempted to broker peace, tension flared up again. The activists tried to enter Secretariat compound breaking barricades and police had to resort to spraying water cannons and caning to douse protesters.