Two regions in the district — Chottanikkara and Kothamangalam — witnessed hartals on Saturday for separate reasons.
Hotels and commercial establishments in Chottanikkara downed the shutters in protest against the alleged move by the panchayat to fill up drains. M.P. Shiju, district president of the Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association, said the move violated the orders of the Kerala High Court and the Ombudsman for Industries.
The panchayat had tried to close down the drains last year, but had to reopen it following orders from the High Court. Hotels in the area had remained closed for the last nine days.
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The association has been demanding that the orders by the High Court and the Ombudsman be implemented. They urged the panchayat to install a sewage treatment plant immediately. M.A. John, panchayat president, said the decision to close down the existing drains was taken after an inspection by the Revenue Divisional Officer last Sunday.
Burglary attempt
The Hindu Aikya Vedi observed a hartal in Kothamangalam taluk on Saturday following a burglary attempt at Ayyankavu Dharmasastha Temple and alleged attempts to destroy the flex boards announcing the Bhagavatha Saptaham to be held at the temple from Monday onwards.
No loss of property has been reported from the temple. A case has been registered.