DPA embarks on fast in Pondy; Normal life hits

Puducherry, Oct 1 (UNI) Activists of the Democratic Progressive Alliance (DPA), led by DMK state convener R V Janakiraman, today sat on a day-long fast near the Venkatasubbareddiyar statue on the Maraimalaiadigal Road here to press for the speedy implementation of the Sethusamudram Shipping canal Project (SSCP).

While the leaders and workers of the DMK, PMK, CPI, CPI(M), DPI, DK and IUML participated in the fast, the Congress -- a key DPA ally -- kept away from the agitation.

Despite the apex court staying the bandh, normal life was hit in the Union Territory as a bandh like situation was witnessed here.

All inter-state buses remained off the roads and many shops and business establishments were closed. Only the State-owned PRTC town buses, autorickshaws and passenger tempos were plying.

Government offices were functioning with thin attendance. Only a few out patients were seen at the otherwise crowded JIPMER and Government General Hospital.

After the Supreme Court had stayed the bandh called by the DPA, the alliance leaders, led by DMK President M Karunanidhi yesterday decided to instead observe a fast.

UNI