Strike disrupts normal life in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM - Normal life was disrupted Tuesday as markets, educational institutions and shops remained closed in Kerala due to a one-day nationwide shutdown called by eight major trade unions, including those of the Left and the Congress.

The nationwide strike was called to protest price rise, violation of labour laws and privatisation.

Offices reported thin attendances as the state and private buses as well as taxis and auto-rickshaws took a day off.

So far, there have been no reports of any untoward incident in the state.

However, Malappuram district was exempted from the shutdown on account of the tragedy Monday in which 23 people died after consuming toddy (traditional drink) suspected to have been mixed with methyl alcohol.

–Indo Asian News Service