Tue Oct 21 06:29:27 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the new Palayam vegetables and fruits market complex in Kozhikode, built via a public-private partnership. The opening was met with protests from vendors and political groups who claim the project inadequately addresses the needs of all existing vendors and laborers associated with the old market. While some vendors have been relocated, others allege exclusion, leading to clashes and police intervention. The Chief Minister defended the project and urged cooperation between the ruling and opposition parties for the betterment of society.

News Article:

New Palayam Market Opens Amid Protests in Kozhikode

Kozhikode, Kerala – October 21, 2025 – Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan today inaugurated the new Palayam vegetables and fruits market complex at Kalluthankadavu in Kozhikode, marking the completion of a ₹100 crore public-private partnership project. The sprawling 3.5 lakh sq ft market, built by the Kalluthankadavu Area Development Company (KADCO), aims to modernize the city’s trade hub and accommodate 310 shops.

However, the opening was overshadowed by protests from vendors and political organizations who allege the new market project fails to adequately address the concerns of all existing stakeholders. Groups carrying placards and black flags demonstrated outside the market, claiming they were being excluded from the relocation process.

“We are not moving out! The Corporation has failed to ensure a proper and scientific transfer of the market that takes into account all vendors and laborers,” stated one protestor, highlighting the core grievance of the dissenting group.

The protests were met with opposition from vendors who have already secured spaces in the new market, resulting in clashes that required police intervention to control.

Speaking at the inauguration, Chief Minister Vijayan defended the project, stating it was “meant for the betterment of society.” He urged constructive criticism and cooperation between the ruling front and the opposition. “Once an election is over, the ruling front and the Opposition should work together for the betterment and development of society.”

The new Palayam market boasts improved infrastructure, including direct access from the Meenchanda-Arayidathupalam bypass road and ramps for autorickshaws and goods vehicles to reach the upper floors. While 153 vendors from the Kozhikode Corporation-owned building at the old Palayam market have been accommodated, concerns remain regarding the fate of street vendors and those operating from other buildings within the existing market complex. The situation remains tense as affected vendors continue to seek a resolution that ensures their livelihoods are protected.

Read More