DMK govt’s resolution against tungsten mining only a pretence to prevent further protests, says Seeman

NTK chief coordinator Seeman criticizes Tamil Nadu's resolution against tungsten mining as a mere facade to prevent protests.

The resolution passed in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly to not allow tungsten mining in Madurai is just a pretence to prevent any protests or agitations from taking place, said Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) chief coordinator Seeman. 

Speaking at Arittapatti in Madurai district on Friday, Mr. Seeman said that the resolution comes at a time when both the DMK and the AIADMK were blaming each other for granting mining permission and it was only the public who were being fooled in the drama.

“The proposal for mining which falls in line with other developmental projects like hydrocarbon exploration, methane project and the neutrino observatory should not be permitted at any cost. The project, which is being boasted as a new beginning for the nation’s development, is only going to benefit a single company and its owner,” he added.  

Though the proposed site was only 5,500 acres, the original plan was to mine in 38,000 acres by way of expansion, he added.

“Even when people flee as refugees due to war or economic situation they can go back to their land, but when their land becomes polluted due to toxic materials like tungsten or nuclear substances, what is the hope that they can return to their homes,” he questioned.  

“Once the project begins in Madurai, the harmful radiation from the site will destroy the entire neighbourhood, rendering the locality unfit to live in,” Mr. Seeman stated.