Date:19/07/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/07/19/stories/2006071904580700.htm

Kerala

Kerala likely to challenge order on trawling

Special Correspondent

Thiruvananthapuram: The kerala Government is seeking legal opinion on filing a review petition to challenge the Supreme Court order extending the monsoon ban on trawling to August 15, Fisheries Minister S. Sarma said on Tuesday.

Talking to presspersons at the Vizhinjam fishing harbour near here, he said a final decision on the legal options would be taken only after studying the judgment.

"The Supreme Court order is applicable to the five westcoast States, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka and Kerala. While the monsoon period in Kerala is June - July, it is staggered over a larger period in the other States.

The apex court may have issued the order to ensure a uniform ban across the coast so that enforcement becomes easier," he said.