Fishermen protest over kerosene shortage in Karnataka

Local fishermen in the Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka​ on Monday picketed the office of Fisheries Deputy Director in the city demanding adequate supply of kerosene to operate traditional and gillnet boats.

The protest was organised by the Dakshina Kannada Gillnet and Traditional Fishermen's Association. Assosiation President Alias said the authorities were not supplying adequate quantity of kerosene to fishermen to operate their boats in the last two months for reasons unknown to them. The protest was for the legitimate rights of fishermen, said  Alias, adding the district administration's attempt to make the city kerosene-free had an impact on kerosene supply.

The government's passive approach to the issue had made life miserable for fishermen in 2,300-odd gillnet and fishing boats operating between Talapady and Malpe. Most of the boats were anchored as the required quantity of kerosene was not supplied at the start of the fishing season, Alias said. A massive protest would be held before the Deputy Commissioner's office here on October 27, if the government failed to concede their demands said Alias, adding, protests would also be held before the residences of local MP, MLA and MLC.

Karavali Traditional Fishing Association president B K Vasudev and DK District Gillnet Association chief secretary B A Basheer were also present.