CPI against closure of Koodankulam plant

Chennai, Nov 9 (PTI) CPI today said it was against the closure of the controversial Nuclear power station in Koodankulam but demanded that the Centre should dispel the apprehensions of the locals before proceeding with the project. Tamil Nadu party unit Secretary D Pandian told reporters that no major political party wanted the closure but the Centre should address the safety concerns of the people in the area before proceeding with the project. On the recurring attacks on Tamil Nadu fishermen allegedly by the Sri Lankan Navy he said, "No civilised society could accept it. The Centre should take up the issue sternly with the Sri Lankan government." He also asked the Tamil Nadu Government to consult all political parties on the steps to be taken to stop the "harassment" and "killing" of Indian fishermen. "If the fishermen crossed the International Maritime Borders, the Sri Lankan government could at best arrest them, but attacks could never be accepted," he said. Pandian also demanded the reduction of Excise Duty and Sales Tax on petrol by the Centre and state governments respectively so that "the hardships suffered by the people could be eased".