Ryots stage walkout over hydrocarbon stir in Tiruchy

As soon as the meeting commenced, the farmers raised slogans demanding the withdrawal the hydrocarbon extraction projects. While the Centre planned to implement such projects in the Cauvery delta districts, the farmers as well as the public strongly opposed the move and hence led to the projects being put off temporarily, said P Viswanathan, the State president of Tank and River Ayacutdars Welfare Association.

Mentioning the recent direction of ONGC seeking environmental clearance for hydrocarbon extraction through 104 additional wells in the State, Viswanathan said, “This is an act of ridiculing the farmers of Tamil Nadu. The Centre wants to turn the Cauvery delta into a desert and we will continue to fight against it.” He also demanded the companies to withdraw from the projects without placing any conditions.

A section of farmers then taking begging bowls, left the meeting hall and staged a protest without wearing any upper garment.

Meanwhile, P Ayyakannu, the State president of the Desiya Thennindiya Nathigal Inaippu Farmers’ Association, said that the entire State has been struggling for potable drinking water and so should be declared drought-hit. The Centre should also allocate compensation out of this, he added.

Also, Tamil Nadu Vivasayigam Sangam district president Subramanian demanded to desilt the Uyyankondan river and its branch canals to ensure free flow of water.