Infuriated by violation of Sabarimala sanctum, Ayyappa devotees observe strike; protests, violence rock Kerala

Kozhikode: The dawn-to-dusk 12-hour hartal called by Hindu outfits began on Thursday morning in protest against the entry of two women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple of Lord Ayyappa. Though some private vehicles are seen plying, public transportation has been completely disrupted.

Public transport services from many parts of Tamil Nadu to Kerala have been stopped at borders from last night due to the hartal. Both Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation buses were stopped.

The protesters are also blocking vehicles in Kozhikode and Kannur. Stones were pelted at a hotel which was open in Kozhikode. Stones were pelted at KSRTC buses in Perambra and Koyilandy.