Slams Edappadi government for ‘anti-people’ policies

People’s movements are being constantly crushed like never before in Tamil Nadu, said activist and Narmada Bachao Andolan leader Medha Patkar at a press meet here on Tuesday.

“Last year alone, 15,000 people were moved to the resettlement colonies. People have been uprooted and left bereft of jobs, education and every livelihood opportunity,” she said.

‘Anti-people policies’

Ms. Patkar further criticised the State government and Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami for implementing ‘anti-people’ policies affecting thousands of slum dwellers. “It is hence proven that urban beautification is only done at the cost of those at the base of this system. But let’s not forget that these are the same people whose services keep the city going,” she said.

Recalling the violence at Thoothukudi that led to the death of 13 people, she criticised the Centre for providing clearance to companies like Sterlite without realising the magnitude of pollution and contamination to the environment. “At least in 2013, the previous government had not given the firm a clear sanction but later they kept receiving regular clearances. The rule in the country today is corporate rule,” she said.

She also condemned the arrest of activist Piyush Manush, who has been protesting against the expansion of the Salem airport. “Manush, Mansoor Ali Khan and Velmurugan were arrested because they raised their voices against the State. Arresting them sends out a message that the country is no more democratic,” she said.