Date:05/07/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/07/05/stories/2008070556240400.htm

Kerala

Ban orders in Kodungalloor

Staff Reporter

Kodungallur: A hartal called by the SNDP and Merchants’ Association in Kodungalloor on Friday was total. Normal life was hit for the third consecutive day, as shops and business establishments remained closed. Private buses kept off the road.

Stray incidents of violence were reported from certain areas. Chandapura Kotayil Prakasan (40), a BJP supporter, was attacked on Friday morning.

District Magistrate and Collector V.K. Baby clamped regulatory orders with effect from Friday evening under Section 23 of the Kerala Police Act (1960) in Kodungalloor and Mathilakam police station limits till July 12, prohibiting public assemblies, demonstrations and processions.

Police security was tightened in all sensitive areas. The Collector has called an all-party meeting on Saturday. “The situation in Kodungallur is tense but under control,” he said.