Anti-nuclear groups write to US Consulate opposing N-plants

The four organisations were People’s Movement Against Nuclear Energy (PMANE), Poovulagin Nanbargal, National Alliance of Anti-nuclear Movements (NAAM), and the National Alliance of People’s Movements (NAPM).

In their jointly-written letter, addressed days after India and the US announced the construction of six nuclear power plants in the country, the organisations said the bilateral agreement was ‘illegal’ and ‘illegitimate’ as the country is set to elect a new government. 

“Only the incoming government can and should decide on such important policy issues. As a matter of fact, nuclear deals and companies all over the world often violate the national laws, neglecting the people’s sentiment and interests,” the letter stated. 

Pointing out that the Indo-US nuclear deal was signed way back in 2008, the letter said the latest announcement was made without divulging crucial information such as the supplier company, the construction sites and terms and conditions of the sale. 

Stating that India is a densely populated country, the organisations expressed their strong objection to the import of American and other foreign nuclear reactors, besides construction of indigenous reactors. 

“We sincerely appeal to the US government not to put their business interests ahead of the safety, security and well-being of the entire sub-continent.” 

Urging the Indian government to drop its nuclear energy plans, the groups warned that they would stage peaceful and democratic agitations against all foreign nuclear deals inked by it.