Team of businessmen meets ministers, urge reopening of Sterlite

The State Government closed the plant on May 28 this year following strong public protests against it. “Ranging from the port to parotta stalls and beeda shops there is no business in Thoothukudi. People have now realised that the closure of Sterlite has resulted in an economic downturn,” said Velshankar, president, Tuticorin Stevedore’s Association.

He was part of the delegation that met Minister for Industries M C Sampath, and Minister for Tamil Development and Tamil Culture Ma Foi K Pandiarajan. They demanded the State Government take steps to reopen the plant immediately.

After meeting the ministers, the delegation addressed mediapersons. “Sterlite Copper decided to double its capacity and only then the competitors realised the danger and supported the protest against Sterlite copper from behind,” they said.

“Sterlite copper decided to increase their copper producing capacity from 4 to 8 lakh metric tonnes. If it is done India will become self-sufficient in copper. Those who import copper will not be able to do so. Hence they fuelled the protest and closed the plant,” said Velshankar.

He also said that there is no second thoughts that environment should be protected, and all the companies should comply with the orders. However, the government officials should ensure that all rules are being followed before giving permission for a company.

When asked about the death of 13 persons who died during the protest, he replied that it was an unfortunate incident and the district administration should be blamed for it as they were silent for 99 days before it took a violent turn on the 100th day.