Sterlite row: No NGT relief for Vedanta

A bench headed by NGT chairperson AK Goel allowed the state government to file its reply on Vedanta’s plea by August 9, when it will next hear the matter. 

The tribunal adjourned the matter after counsel for the state sought time, saying “there are certain developments that needs to be brought before the court”. 

The submission, however, was opposed by senior advocate CA Sundaram, appearing for Vedanta, who said the issue was “political”. “This is a complete political issue. Now the agitation is starting the other way where around 25,000 people are sitting on protest,” the counsel said.

The senior advocate, while seeking the tribunal’s permission to enter the premises, said there was sulphuric acid leak from the factory, which had to be taken care of since it may lead to disaster. “The factory was locked by the state. At least let us remove the sulphuric acid,” the counsel said. 

At this, the counsel for the state government, said, “Things are being taken care of for the last one month and entire sulphuric acid has been removed.” 

The state’s plea, seeking time to file the reply, was opposed by Vedanta, which said that the situation was critical.