Vaiko files petition in HC seeking permanent closure of Sterlite

In his petition, Vaiko had stated that the operation license of Sterlite Copper, located in Meelavittan village near Thoothukudi, issued by Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) had expired on March 31 and because of industrial wastes from Sterlite Copper were badly polluting Meelavittan and its neighbouring villages.

Because of the pollution, students, children and women in the villages surrounding Sterlite Copper were affected with various diseases. Under these circumstances, Sterlite Copper had started to expand their company but had not obtained proper permissions from the state and the central governments. 

Those affected have now hit the streets protesting Sterlite Copper and demanding its permanent closure. The residents fear that if Sterlite Copper expands, the industrial plant which will manufacture 8 lakh tonnes of copper every year, will cause irreparable damage not just to them but also to their agricultural lands. 

Further, Sterlite Copper did not conduct any public hearing to expand their plant though it is mandatory. Also, Sterlite Copper is situated in a prohibited area within 5 kilometer radius of at least five islands in the Bay of Bengal sea. The unit, classified under RED industries, cannot be allowed to run in the prohibited area as it poses threat to the huge population of Thoothukudi.

Also, a company classified under RED industries category functioning near thickly populated area is violation of Article 21 of Right to Life. So, the High Court should order the state and the central governments, under Writ of Mandamus, to stop issuing consent to Sterlite Copper and to shut down the plant permanently, prayed Vaiko.

The Madurai Bench of Madras High Court granted bail to anti-Sterlite protesters on Wednesday. Those protested were booked by Thoothukudi Police and some were arrested. Thereafter, the protesters had filed a bail petition at the Madurai Bench of Madras High Court but the counsel appearing for Sterlite Copper argued that bail should not be given to them. However, Judge G R Swaminathan said that people have the right to protest peacefully, adding that they would be granted bail if they provide written assurance they will not indulge in violent acts. Thereafter, bail was granted to them and were directed to give written assurance in the respective police stations.