KOCHI: In the wake of fish adulteration detected in various parts of the state, the Kerala Independent Fish Workers Federation (KIFWF) demanded authorities to check fish brought by rail. KIFWF representatives told reporters here on Wednesday fish transported from other states should be checked properly. KIFWF general secretary Jackson Pollayyil said adulterating fish using ammonia and formalin is not practised by fishing boats arriving in Kerala. Such illegal activities, he said, are carried out by bulk fish suppliers from other states. “Since these fish sometimes take a week to reach Kerala, the bulk suppliers add ammonia and formalin,” Jackson said.
“Even though the fish brought in trucks are checked, the authorities should also check the fish brought by rail. The government should take stringent action and culprits should be given apt punishment so that these people refrain from indulging in illegal activities.”KIFWF urged the government to take the initiative to put an end to fishermen getting exploited by middlemen.
“The price of fish continues to be decided by middlemen at harbours. The fishermen don’t even get 20 per cent market price of the fish. To stop such exploitation, the government had formed Matsyafed. But Matsyafed is yet to be given access to harbours where auctions are held,” said T Peter, National Fish Workers Forum general secretary. KIFWF claimed confusion prevails in connection with a recent verdict by the Kerala High Court regarding the trawling ban. The government has to clarify small fishing boats are exempted from trawling ban.
“Since these small boats are not engaged in trawling activities, the government should file a revision petition with the Kerala High Court to get a clarification on the recent verdict. A mistake on the part of the government prosecutor has led to such confusion,” Jackson said.