Now that the CBI has started the probe into the anti-Sterlite protests and firing that took place in Thoothukudi May this year, in which 13 persons were killed and about 40 injured, all eyes are on the central agency amidst hope that truth will emerge at the earliest. As part of its investigation, families of victims and injured in the firing were summoned for examination. Documents giving information of weaponry used in the firing have been collected and details of who issued the firing orders that took 13 lives have also been revealed.
It is learnt that the CBI was examining the officials of Tamilnadu police and revenue department. There were protests at the Collector’s office in Thoothukudi 22 May, despite permission being denied by the officials. The protestors associated with organisations like Naam Thamizhar, Makkal Adhikaram, Puratchigara Ilaignar Munnani and others allegedly breached security protocol and marched towards the Collector’s office.
Activists in Thoothukudi had been demanding the closure of the Sterlite plant run by the Vedanta Resources group. They alleged that the pollution generated by the Sterlite copper smelter unit contaminated the region’s air and water resources, which caused breathing disorders, skin diseases and cancer. However, the Vedanta group denied the allegations. While the activists say that the police shot at them in a bid to end the agitation, the police allege that anti-social elements mixed with the public and created problems, forcing them to open fire. Even as attempts are being made to reopen the plant thanks to the recent NGT order, the CBI probe has come at the right time. If the investigation is completed at the earliest, it would bring to light who the real culprits are.