The members of the All India Youth Federation (AIYF) waved black flags at Finance Minister K M Mani as a mark of protest against the UDF government’s decision to hike electricity tariff in the state.
“The UDF government should immediately withdraw the decision to hike the prices,” shouted the 20-member group which shouted slogans and waved the black flag even as the minister approached the IMA hall in a car to inaugurate the KSSEDM cheque distribution ceremony.
The agitated group clashed with the police and the latter resorted to lathi charge. The protestors were then taken to the police station.
Meanwhile, Mani said that it was very disappointing to see the leftist ideology youths creating unwanted ruckus.
“Today, we are launching one of UDF government’s most ambitious schemes which focuses mainly on the development and empowerment of the youth. Here, we are providing vast opportunities for them, however, such members are thinking of ways to waste their youth and energy on unwanted protests and marches which will only hinder their development in the long run,” Mani said.
Mani also spoke against the unwanted agitations raised by the youth over the pension age of government employees.
“Detailed discussions are taking place at the higher levels. The youth have to realise that the UDF government won’t take any decision regarding this without their consent. They will be part of our decision making process,” the finance minister added.