Madurai, Jan 31: Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai stated that the cancellation of the Tungsten mining project was not a result of a resolution passed in the state assembly. He made this remark while addressing a felicitation ceremony at Vallalapatti.The event was organized to honor Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy, who played a key role in canceling the Tungsten mining project. Locals welcomed both Minister Kishan Reddy and BJP State President Annamalai with Poorna Kumbha honors.
Background of the Tungsten Mining Project
The Central Government had earlier granted a contract to establish a Tungsten mine in the villages of Vallalapatti and Arittapatti near Melur, Madurai district. However, the local population strongly opposed the project, citing environmental concerns and its impact on their livelihood. They staged continuous protests against the initiative.
During one of his visits, Annamalai met the protesting villagers and assured them that he would take up the matter with the Central Government. Following this, local farmers and village representatives traveled to Delhi and met Union Minister Kishan Reddy, who assured them that the project would be scrapped. Accordingly, an official cancellation announcement was made.
The people of Arittapatti and surrounding villages welcomed this decision with celebrations, bursting crackers and distributing sweets.
Felicitation Event for Kishan Reddy
To express their gratitude, a grand felicitation ceremony was organized in Vallalapatti for Union Minister Kishan Reddy. When he arrived at the venue alongside Annamalai, both leaders were honored with Poorna Kumbha respects by the local community.
Speaking at the event, Annamalai hailed the day as “historically significant” and extended his gratitude to the villagers.
“The people of this village have shown everyone how to approach an issue effectively. I thank each and every one of you. Minister Kishan Reddy is here as Prime Minister Modi’s representative,” he said.
He also criticized the Tamil Nadu government, stating, “The cancellation of this project was not due to the Assembly resolution. The state assembly passes resolutions every week—do they all get implemented? The Tamil Nadu government’s threats do not scare Prime Minister Modi. If Modi can handle the Ukraine-Russia conflict with a firm stance, do you think he would fear a state government?”
Annamalai further reminded the people that while PM Modi ensured the project was scrapped, the Tamil Nadu government had filed cases against 11,000 protesters.
