Report on Sterlite triggers debate

The committee, constituted by the NGT, on Wednesday submitted to the green panel that the shutting down the Vedanta-owned copper smelting plant was not sustainable as it was “against the principles of natural justice.”

Vaiko announced his party would continue protests, as it was a 22-year long struggle by the public seeking better air and pollution-free life. He said there was a constant effort by the Centre and the State to support the Vedanta group. As per legal proceedings, transparency was lacking and retired judges from TN were shocked over the developments in favour of Sterlite, Vaiko said in his statement. It was the locals who are against the plant for unchecked pollution, he said.

Ramadoss said a complete ban on Sterlite was the demand of the Thoothukudi residents. The committee’s submission in favour of Sterlite was anticipated and there were efforts to open the plant by next year. The State authorities have betrayed the people, he said.

MMK president M H Jawahirullah demanded the State to take a policy decision and pass a resolution in the cabinet so that the Sterlite was not reopened. Further, if it was reopened, it would be a shock for Thoothukudi residents, he said, adding that the State should have taken a cabinet decision on this regard earlier. At least now, the State should go for a policy decision so that the courts cannot intervene in the issue.

Also, DMK president MK Stalin attributed the committee’s recommendation to the slackness of the ruling AIADMK in shutting down the plant and said he insisted on taking a cabinet decision on Sterlite closure only in anticipation of such an adverse outcome.

Meanwhile, AIADMK leader and Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker M Thambidurai responded that the State government knows what to do with the Sterlite issue.