Thoothukudi violence: Probe to continue

The Commission is expected to visit Thoothukudi this month, Collector Sandeep Nanduri said on Monday. During the violence, 13 people were killed and several others were injured. While talking to reporters, the Collector said already the Commission conducted a three-day inquiry in Thoothukudi and 12 persons, who were relatives of the victims, were inquired. The Commission could possibly visit Thoothukudi twice a month.

Meanwhile, he said based on National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) order, the evacuation of chemicals, by-products and raw material inside the Sterlite plant had been suspended over the last two days and all gates were sealed. Contract workers, who were deputed temporarily, had been sent back. 

The NGT has ordered to provide administrative access to employees at Sterlite plant, but the company management had not contacted the district administration so far over this issue.

Based on the Government Order, the plant was closed and sealed. If the management demanded administrative access for its employees, a report would be sent to government for obtaining permission as a formal procedure. As of now, nobody was allowed inside the plant. The officials from Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board conducted several surveys and the state collected enough data, so far. The TNPCB could take more samples, if necessary, the Collector said.