Trawling Ban . . . .

The historic struggle in 1981 demanding a ban on bottom trawling during the Monsoon season was one of the most important campaigns that the Federation has taken out over the years. The struggle was unprecedented in its form and content. It addressed the need to protect the interests of the traditional fish workers on the one hand and the necessity to ensure the preservation of marine resources on the other. It was also crucial in avoiding conflicts between mechanised boat owners and artisanal fish workers. The struggle raised a serious debate on conservation of marine resources, as the Monsoon season covering June, July, and August is the fish-spawning period.

Numerous protest marches were organised to the ministers' offices. As these did not lead to any favourable response, the leaders went on a hunger strike before the State Secretariat at Trivandrum. This unleashed a series of agitations. In an unprecedented demonstration of their collective strength, the fish workers stalled the functioning of the Trivandrum International Airport for several hours. Agitating fish workers brought the activities of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to a standstill the following day. Many fish workers were injured when the police resorted to lathi-charge and several union leaders were arrested.

Subsequent to this, the fish workers blocked the national highway. The agitation at the Secretariat was intensified. The government then appointed the Babu Paul Commission to look into the demand for a ban on bottom trawling during the Monsoon. The agitation was suspended temporarily in response to this. >>More