The Tamil Nadu Assembly today unanimously passed a resolution urging the Central Government to revoke the tungsten mining license granted to Hindustan Zinc Limited in Madurai’s Arittapatti area. The resolution also emphasized that no mining licenses should be auctioned or granted without the consent of the respective state government.
The session, chaired by Speaker M. Appavu, began at 9:30 am with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin introducing the resolution. Water Resources Minister Duraimurugan presented it, highlighting the environmental and social concerns raised by the public over the proposed mining project.
Duraimurugan’s Statement in Assembly:
Minister Duraimurugan stressed the necessity of the state’s approval for such projects. “No mining permissions should be granted without the approval of the state government. The selected area for tungsten mining has already been declared a biodiversity hotspot. The Tamil Nadu Government and its people will not accept mining activities that threaten the region’s ecological balance and disrupt the livelihood of the local population,” he asserted.
The resolution led to a heated exchange between Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Leader of the Opposition, Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS).
EPS questioned the government’s delay in addressing the issue. “Why was the government callous on the matter for so long? If the area is ecologically sensitive, why weren’t necessary steps taken earlier to prevent the project from advancing to this stage?” he asked.
In response, CM Stalin defended the government’s actions and reiterated their commitment to halting the project. “We have consistently opposed this project from the beginning and have acted promptly. This resolution is a strong message to the Central Government and a reassurance to the people of Tamil Nadu. Let there be no doubt—we will take all efforts to ensure no mining work is carried out in Arittapatti,” Stalin stated firmly.
The proposed mining site in Arittapatti and surrounding villages like Nayakarpatti, Kavattayampatti, and Ettimangalam has faced significant resistance from local communities. Residents fear that mining activities will harm their environment, deplete water resources, and endanger biodiversity. Protests have intensified, with villagers demanding the immediate cancellation of the project.
The resolution received widespread support from political parties across the spectrum. Tamilaga Valvurimai Katchi (TVK) leader Velmurugan endorsed the resolution, stating, “The Central Government should not grant mining licenses without the consent of the state. This resolution reflects the sentiments of the people of Tamil Nadu and deserves full support.”
Other opposition parties also voiced their approval, demonstrating unity against the tungsten mining project.
The Tamil Nadu Government has consistently opposed the project, emphasizing the potential threats to the region’s ecosystem and the livelihoods of farmers. The state has urged the Central Government to revoke the contract awarded to Hindustan Zinc Limited and ensure no further mining projects are undertaken without state approval.
The Central Government granted Hindustan Zinc Limited a license for tungsten mining in Arittapatti, an area known for its rich biodiversity and home to several protected species. The move faced criticism from environmentalists and local residents, who raised concerns over its long-term impact on water resources, agriculture, and wildlife.