Demand the immediate closure of the Sterlite copper plant in Thoothukudi

Several organisations gathered here to condemn the police firing during a rally demanding the closure of the Sterlite Copper plant in Thoothukudi on Tuesday.

The SOCO Trust’s Managing Trustee A. Mahboob Batcha condemned the firing and claimed that this was a clampdown on democracy.

Members of People’s Watch who were present at the spot said that Chief Minister’s inaction during the 100 day protest and his gross negligence during the rally resulted in the loss of several lives and left many others grievously injured.

The organisation demanded the immediate closure of the Sterlite Copper plant and sought an enquiry by the National Human Rights Commission as well as the State Human Rights Commission.

It demanded that compensation to the families which lost their kin must be increased to Rs. 20 lakh from the stated Rs. 10 lakh. An immediate order should be issued by the Government of Tamil Nadu to stop police excess in Thoothukudi, said Executive Director of People’s Watch Henri Tiphange.

C.J. Rajan, State president, Samam Kudimakkal Iyakkam, echoed the similar demands. He added that the Chief Minister should resign immediately.

Student organisations like Democratic Youth Federation of India and Tamil outfits like the May 17 Movement, Dravidar Viduthalai Kazhagam, Tamil Desiyaper Iyakkam and Egathipathiya Edurpu Iyakkam protested at Periyar bus stand junction at different times during the day. Police arrested them and r released them later.

Members of the Tamil Nadu Vanigar Sangangalin Peravai stated that they would organise a bandh on May 24 to show support for the protesters.