Tags:
Journalism of Courage
One person was killed and several injured on Monday after police fired on protesters,allegedly led by Shiv Sena leaders,opposing the proposed nuclear power project at Jaitapur in Maharashtra.
Union Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh had said in Mumbai on Friday that there would be no rethink on the project. The Sena mouthpiece,Saamna,criticised him on the issue today.
State Home Minister R R Patil said one Tabrez Tehekar of Nate village was killed in the firing on Monday afternoon. He said the protesters had attempted to burn down the Nate police station and could have fled with ammunition.
Residents from five villages adjoining the proposed 9,900-MW project have been protesting,fearing radiation and ill effects on health,mango farms and fishing.
The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL),along with AREVA,plans to set up six nuclear units in Jaitapur. On Sunday night,villagers burnt Ramesh in effigy for his remarks. On Monday morning,several hundred villagers marched to the plateau where the units are being built and allegedly tried to stop work.
Local Shiv Sena workers allegedly led the protests. Ranjit Raj Kakde,general manager,NPCIL,said he had no information on damage to property. Patil said that a large number of policemen were posted at the site,but only five constables were present at the Nate police station.
A group of people,he said,attacked the police station and set it on fire. The police station has been damaged and vehicles burnt. We suspect some ammunition might have been stolen, Patil said.
He said the police initially fired in the air and then at the mob in an attempt to disperse them. He said a detailed report had been sought.
In the Assembly,the Opposition asked for an explanation. Patil said he had received only preliminary information and expressed regret over the death. Dissatisfied,the Opposition walked out.
Activists have announced a rally from Tarapur to Jaitapur from Saturday,demanding cancellation of the project.
