MDMK General Secretary Vaiko addressing a public meeting in Thoothukudi on Thursday.
| Photo Credit: RAJESH N
An environmental protection public meeting was organised in Thoothukudi on Thursday, jointly by the MDMK, VCK, CPI(M), CPI and various fishermen’s organisations.MDMK general secretary Vaiko attended the meeting as special invitee and addressed the gathering.Speaking at the meeting, Mr Vaiko reiterated his opposition to the Sterlite copper plant and criticised the efforts to revive the project under different banner.He added that he had argued extensively in court against the Sterlite plant, contending that it was harmful to the environment and recalled that the Madras High Court had subsequently ordered its closure.Mr. Vaiko further questioning rationale behind locating such projects in Tamil Nadu, he alleged that the Sterlite sought to win public support through various welfare initiatives and donations.Referring to the 2018 Thoothukudi police firing, in which 13 people were killed during the protests against the Sterlite plant, he demanded that cases registered against 101 persons in connection with the incident be withdrawn.Mr. Vaiko also criticised the initial denial of permission for the public meeting, alleging that efforts had been made to prevent the event from taking place. He said that he had brought the issue to the attention of the state government, following which permission was granted.Claiming that democratic rights must be protected, he said that he was prepared to face legal action if necessary for expressing his views. Published - July 03, 2026 08:12 pm IST
