Strike backers stop teachers at Koz school, vandalize bar

Kozhikode: Tension prevailed in Kozhikode on Thursday morning after a minor clash broke out between trade union activists and residents outside the Government Mixed Upper Primary School (GMUP) at Puthiyangadi during the nationwide strike, which was observed as a near-total shutdown in Kerala.The incident occurred when a group of teachers reported for duty despite the strike call. Agitated union activists gathered outside the school and blocked their entry, eventually closing the school gate.As the situation escalated, residents and parents arrived at the spot in support of the teachers, leading to a heated argument and a brief scuffle. According to sources, a teenager also became involved in the altercation. Some activists later alleged that the boy was assaulted during the clash.The boy told the media that he was hit by a man identified as Nazar, reportedly a UDF activist. However, others present claimed that the boy had first struck the man, who then retaliated.Police personnel, including a riot control team, rushed to the spot and dispersed the crowd, restoring order. To prevent further escalation, the teachers who had come for classes left the premises, even as some protesters raised slogans against them. Meanwhile, in Wayanad district, trade union activists briefly stopped a KSRTC bus as part of the strike.The bandh supporters vandalised a bar in Changanassery. A group of protesters carrying flags stormed the Emerald Bar at Payippad, which was open despite the strike, and smashed the main glass door with sticks. They allegedly threatened customers and staff, forcing them to leave, and damaged the front entrance. CCTV visuals later showed employees being assaulted inside the premises. The bar owner has filed a complaint with the police regarding the incident.