Kerala minister forced to walk after protest blocks official convoy

Local Self Government Minister and IUML leader K.M. Shaji faced an unexpected disruption to his commute in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday when youth wing activists blocked his passage near Vanross Junction. The minister was en route from the secretariat to his official residence when the demonstration took place. According to reports, Shaji was traveling without a pilot vehicle or security escort at the time of the incident. When activists surrounded his vehicle and prevented it from proceeding, Shaji attempted to continue his journey by auto-rickshaw. However, the protesters also blocked the three-wheeler, forcing the minister to cover the remaining distance on foot. The incident underscores ongoing political tensions in the Kerala capital, where opposition groups have been active in staging demonstrations against government officials. No statement has been issued by the minister's office regarding the disruption or any formal complaint filed in connection with the blockade.