Regulation of Hartal Bill to be tabled in Kerala Assembly

KOCHI: The Regulation of Hartal Bill will be tabled in the next session of the Kerala assembly starting Nov 30. A meeting of the state cabinet has given the approval for the introduction of the bill, which seeks to curb the call for hartal without prior notice.

As per the Bill, closure of shops and offices by force, erecting of road blocks to hinder vehicular traffic or preventing office goers from attending work etc.would attract a fine of Rs 10,000 or imprisonment up to 6 months or both.

Those who prevent people from visiting hospitals, educational institutions, hotels, petrol pumps, etc. would attract the same punishment, a statement issued by the CM's office said. Hartals can be observed only after giving a three-day notice through media. Hospitals, health clinics, pharmacy, medical shops, etc. should be allowed to function. The distribution of newspaper, milk, food, fish, water, etc. and vehicles such ambulances and other hospital vehicles should not be obstructed.

As per the provisions of the Bill, those who call for hartal should keep a security deposit.