SC proposes expert panel to examine Vedanta's Sterlite Copper Plant future
Vedanta's Sterlite Copper plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. This comes in response to Vedanta's appeal against the closure of the plant by the Tamil Nadu government. The three-judge bench, led by Chief Justice D.Y.
Chandrachud, suggested that the committee include a representative from an environmental department of one of the IITs, along with representatives from the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, the Central Pollution Control Board, and three other renowned environmental experts nominated by the court. However, both parties were asked to provide their suggestions for forming the committee. The apex court outlined the committee's responsibilities, including assessing whether an industry like a copper smelter can be situated in Thoothukudi and under what conditions it may operate.
Additionally, the committee will determine safeguards to be imposed on the industry, compensation for any past violations, and measures to ensure environmental protection and reparations for violations. During the hearing, senior advocate Shyam Divan, representing Vedanta, argued that the plant was shut down by the Tamil Nadu government despite having all necessary consents and approvals, citing issues like the absence of a groundwater report and inadequate air quality monitoring. He noted the plant's contribution to India's copper requirements, stating that its closure had made India reliant on imports.
Divan also highlighted the significant revenue generated by the plant for the state through taxes. In response, the court acknowledged the importance of the industry but stressed the need to address the concerns of the local community, particularly considering Tuticorin's history of environmental disasters. The hearing is expected to
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