Kerala passes Bill to seek compensation from Coke

The Kerala Assembly on Thursday passed a Bill to set up a tribunal for realising compensation from Coca Cola for the damage its soft drink bottling plant allegedly caused to nature and the people of Palakkad.

The three-member tribunal will consider petitions for compensation and grievances of the affected people. The Bill was based on the findings of a high-power committee headed by Additional Chief Secretary K Jayakumar.

The ruling Left Front and the Opposition Congress were unanimous in enacting the Plachimada Coca Cola Victims Relief and Compensation Claims Special Tribunal Act,2011.

The soft drink giant criticised the decision,saying,This Bill is devoid of facts,scientific data or any input from or consideration given to the company.