Lakshadweep: Demand for removal of Administrator Praful Patel; residents fast for 12 hours, protests underwater

The demand for the removal of Lakshadweep administrator Praful Patel is gaining momentum. The locals went on a 12-hour fast demanding recall of the islands'' Administrator Praful Khoda Patel for his ''anti-people'' measures and seeking withdrawal of a draft legislation on development. 

Residents of Lakshadweep on Monday held an underwater protest in the Arabian Sea while others staged a 12 hour fast outside their homes. One of the decisions of Lakshadweep Administrator Praful Patel is being opposed at all levels.

The protestors, under the banner of "save Lakshadweep forum" held placards underwater in the Arabian sea and outside their homes with slogans like "Revoke LDAR" (Lakshadweep Development Authority Regulation) and "Justice for Lakshadweep" and posted their pictures in social media. 

The agitation was organized in collaboration with Lakshadweep Bachao Forum. Opposition leaders in Lakshadweep and Kerala have alleged that Praful Patel has lifted restrictions on the use of alcohol, banned beef products in Muslim-majority areas, citing animal protection. Also, the sheds of the fishermen on the shore have been demolished, saying they violated the Coast Guard Act. 
The BJP has however defended Patel, claiming that the protests were a result of his efforts to end "corrupt practices" involving local politicians prevalent and usher in development there.