Kerala lorry operators to intensify stir

Kozhikode, Oct 23 (UNI) Adopting a defiant stand by ignoring the Kerala Government's appeal, the Kerala State Lorry Owners Federation (KSLOF) has decided to intensify its agitation, which entered the fifth day today.

''It is our democratic right to mark our protest'' against the Government's refusal to heed our demand for more time to settle the Employees Welfare Funds dues and tax, KSLOF President P M Mohammadali told reporters here today.

He said a majority of the Federation's Executive Committee members, who met here last night, had favoured continuance of the stir.

Reacting to the operators' decision, State Food Minister C Divakaran said the Government was prepared to meet any eventuality arising out of the continued agitation.

Rejecting any further discussions with the operators on the issue, Labour Minister P K Gurudasan had yesterday urged them to call off the stir to avoid hardship to people.

The Minister said their demands were not justifiable as they were required to pay a small amount as welfare fund dues.

UNI