The Congress-led opposition in Kerala has launched protests against the Pinarayi government against its decision to make Covid tests mandatory for expatriates returning home from the Gulf.

The Leader of Opposition staged one-day hunger strike in front of the State Secretariat, demanding reversal of restrictions imposed against Non-Resident Keralaites returning home.

PCC chief Mullapally Ramachandran alleged that the state government was trying to stop Keralaites from returning home from the Gulf. “The decision of the government stops thousands of poor Gulf Malayalees from returning home. In a way, restrictions are going to trap thousands in the jaws of death while the infection level is spreading fast in Gulf countries. We will continue our protests till the state government reverse the decision,” Mullappally said.

The Leader of Opposition Ramesh Chennithala also accused the state government of enacting inhumane restrictions on Gulf Malayalees. Former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and Indian Union Muslim League leader Dr MK Muneer also participated in the protests.

Congress-led United Democratic Front has also decided to launch protests in 14 districts and Gulf pockets against restrictions imposed by state government.

Meanwhile, the High Court is considering a petition against mandatory Covid tests for expatriates returning home.

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan has, however, clarified that the new regulations demanding Covid-free tests for passengers returning home from the Gulf was imposed to ensure safety of all those coming back as the current rate of infection level among returnees touched 52.4%.

He also initiated discussions with Indian embassies in Gulf for offering tests for passengers.

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