Sterlite, Governor’s address may figure in Cabinet meet

It has been learnt that the issue would be discussed by the State Cabinet, which is set to meet on December 24.

According to government sources, the meeting would be held at 12 pm on December 24 (Monday) and the ministers were informed about it on Friday.

“The cabinet meeting is a routine affair held towards the end of every year to approve the Governor’s speech and to discuss various schemes that would be a part of the Governor’s speech.”

The cabinet will also discuss several other issues affecting Tamil Nadu, including the NGT’s order that permitted Sterlite copper to resume operations at its Thoothukudi plant. An AIADMK functionary said that since the ministers have a diverse view on the Sterlite issue, it might be discussed at the meeting, but added that no official decision will be taken as the case is pending in the Supreme Court.

A group of fishermen under the banner, Bharathiya Meenavar Kootamaippu (BMK), have petitioned the State Government demanding permanent closure of the Sterlite copper plant. Prabakaran, founding president, BMK, said, “Sterlite with the help of the National Green Tribunal is trying to reopen the plant but the State Government should not allow it to function.” “The government should take legal steps to ensure that the plant is shutdown permanently,” said Prabakaran. According to Praveen Kumar, organising secretary, BMK, fishermen in delta districts were affected greatly due to cyclone Gaja as it had stripped them off their livelihood. The government should announce a realistic compensation for the fishermen affected by Gaja so that they are able to fish again, Praveen Kumar demanded. Many BMK members tried to meet Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami. Since they were not given appointment, they submitted their petition in the Chief Minister’s office. They claimed that they have been trying to meet the CM for the past two years to put forth various demands but could not meet him.