A statewide hartal called in Kerala on April 28, 2026, has significantly disrupted daily life, with public transport services coming to a near standstill and thousands of commuters stranded across the state. The protest was triggered by the death of Nithin Raj, which has sparked widespread outrage and led to demonstrations in multiple districts.

According to reports, private buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws largely stayed off the roads as protestors enforced the hartal. Shops, commercial establishments, and educational institutions remained closed in many areas, while only essential services were allowed to operate. Police forces were deployed across key locations to maintain law and order, as authorities anticipated large-scale gatherings and potential unrest.

NEET candidates and patients face major difficulties

One of the most concerning impacts of the hartal has been on NEET candidates and patients who needed urgent travel. Several students appearing for national-level entrance examinations faced uncertainty as transport options became limited. In some districts, special arrangements were made to help candidates reach exam centres, but many still reported delays and inconvenience.

Patients traveling for medical appointments and emergency treatments also encountered difficulties due to the lack of public transport. Hospitals continued to function, but reaching them proved to be a major challenge for many people. Authorities urged protestors to allow free movement for emergency services, but disruptions were reported in certain areas.

The hartal has once again raised concerns about the impact of statewide shutdowns on essential services and vulnerable groups. While protests remain a significant form of public expression, the situation highlights the need for better coordination to ensure that students and patients are not severely affected during such actions.