NEW DELHI: In a decisive judgment, the Supreme Court of India has dismissed Vedanta’s review petition seeking the reopening of its controversial copper smelting plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. This marks the continuation of a closure order initially enforced in May 2018 after allegations of severe environmental violations and a tragic incident in which 13 protesters were killed in police firing.
Background: Decades of Controversy
The Sterlite Copper plant, owned by Vedanta, has been a subject of environmental and public health concerns since its establishment. Over the years, local communities and environmental groups have accused the plant of polluting air, water, and soil, with incidents like a sulfur dioxide leak in 1997 and recurring gas leaks in subsequent years adding to its infamy. Despite these issues, the plant was allowed to operate intermittently until the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board and the state government took decisive action in 2018.
Supreme Court’s Observations
The court, in its recent ruling, upheld its February 2024 decision, emphasizing the importance of protecting the health and welfare of Thoothukudi residents. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud and the bench noted “serious and repeated violations,” making the reopening of the plant untenable. The judgment aligns with the 2020 Madras High Court ruling, which had also rejected Vedanta’s appeal for resumption of operations.
Reactions and Future Implications
The decision has been hailed as a victory for environmental justice by activists and local residents. Organizations like the People Rights Protection Centre (PRPC), instrumental in the protests, expressed relief, calling the closure a necessary step for a pollution-free environment. Meanwhile, Vedanta has announced that it will evaluate further legal options, leaving room for potential future appeals.
Web Team, C6N
