Kozhikode, July 05: The Kerala cabinet sub-committee which met here yesterday to discuss the latest situation at Marad, where nine persons were killed on May 2, is convening an all-party meeting today to explore the possibilities for restoring peace in the violence-hit area. "No major decision was arrived at yesterday`s meeting and the issue will be discussed in detail at an all-party meeting to be held at the collectorate here today," state health minister P Sankaran, a member of the panel, said here earlier. Asked if the process of rehabilitation would go ahead inspite of the stiff resistance from the local people, he said, "If the family members want to leave their home, they will be allowed to do so." Local people, particularly women, are opposing the rehabilitation and are seeking the removal of a family of minority community, brought back to Marad as part of the rehabilitation process. The Araya Samaja, representing the Hindu community in the beach area, did not participate in yestrday`s meeting, he said, adding that besides the Samaja all political parties should come forward to attend today`s meet to help in restoring lasting peace in the area soon.

People from Beypore panchayat area, comprising Marad, met the panel, headed by PWD minister M K Muneer, and assured their cooperation in restoring peace in the area, Sankaran said.

Police, he said, would continue to maintain strict vigil in the affected area.

Bureau Report