Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai has accused the DMK government of staging a “drama” over the tungsten mining project in the Madurai district. Speaking to the media in New Delhi, Annamalai criticized the DMK for not opposing the project at the right time and now attempting to politicize the issue.
The central government had granted formal approval for tungsten mining in the Melur region, covering areas around Arittapatti and Nayakarpatty. Residents of these areas, comprising 10 villages, have raised concerns about the project’s potential environmental impact, including threats to ancient Jain monuments and 2,200-year-old rock temples.
Annamalai stated that the central government would not proceed with any initiative that harms people. He met with Union Minister for Mines and Coal, Pralhad Joshi, to discuss the issue and requested a reconsideration of the project. The minister reportedly assured that the matter would be reviewed.
“We are committed to ensuring a decision that protects people’s welfare,” Annamalai said.
Annamalai accused the DMK government of playing a double game. “Initially, the DMK facilitated the project and later, when public opposition arose, they passed a resolution in the Tamil Nadu Assembly against it,” he remarked.
He alleged that the central government had written to the Tamil Nadu government about the tungsten mining project on September 15, 2023. Subsequently, on February 8, 2024, the state government submitted a detailed project report to the central government, based on which the auction for mining rights was announced.
“By suppressing these facts, the DMK is pretending ignorance and playing politics,” Annamalai said.
Annamalai questioned why the DMK government remained silent for over a year and failed to oppose the project before the auction process. He called on the DMK to take responsibility for its role in the issue instead of engaging in political theatrics.
The BJP leader emphasized that any decision regarding the project would be taken in the best interest of the people, with a focus on protecting Tamil Nadu’s heritage and environment.