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Kozhikode, Oct 21 (IANS) Violent confrontation broke out on Tuesday during a protest against the waste processing facility by a factory in Thamarassery, Kerala’s Kozhikode, resulting in several injuries and damage to property.
The protesters reportedly set fire inside the factory premises, increasing tension in the area.
The problems started when lorries carrying waste tried to enter the factory.
The locals were adamant that they would not allow it to enter and the police tried to chase the locals away and trouble began.
The clash involved local residents and law enforcement personnel, including several officers of Kozhikode Rural Police, who were injured while trying to control the situation.
The Thamarassery Station House Officer and other officials were also reportedly injured during the disturbance.
Eyewitnesses said the protest began peacefully but turned violent after protesters allegedly started pelting stones.
In response, police fired tear gas shells and resorted to lathicharge to disperse the angry mob.
The injured persons were immediately taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Officials said the conflict was sparked by long-standing complaints from local residents regarding waste processing operations at the facility.
The protest went out of control when some protesters resorted to vandalism, prompting law enforcement officials to take necessary action.
The incident has created a tense atmosphere in Thamarassery, with police maintaining a tight presence to prevent further clashes.
The Fresh Cut factory has also been damaged due to the fire, although the damage has not been fully assessed yet.
Local officials have called for calm and urged residents to lodge complaints through proper channels rather than resorting to violence.
Investigation is underway to identify those responsible for the incidents of arson and stone pelting.
The protest reflects growing public frustration over waste management operations in the area as a long time has not yielded positive results, requiring dialogue between authorities, factory management and local communities to prevent further unrest.
Protests have been going on since the factory started operating in 2019.
–IANS
SG/KHz