Vedanta's offer of producing oxygen @ sealed & shut Thoothukudi copper smelter complex is duplicitous & must be rejected. Reasons why and how to reject without compromising state's ability to source extra oxygen. #BanSterlite 1/n

The plant is shutdown by weight of two separate orders. 1) for a serious violation of safety norms & causing massive SO2 gas leak in March 2013 that injured 1000s in Thoothukudi. 2) a permanent closure order by GoTN in May 2018. #BanSterlite 2/n

Both closure orders were confirmed by Madras High Court in August 2020, highlighting fraud committed by company and the “supine indifference on the part of the [Vedanta] in compliance with the [license] conditions.” #BanSterlite 3/n

Vedanta has failed to disclose permanent closure by Govt Order or separate closure for causing disastrous 2013 gas leak in its submission to SC. Why? What does it have to hide? #BanSterlite 4/n

O2 plant inside Sterlite complex built in Jan 2004 without env clearance. This was confirmed by Oct 2004 TNPCB committee formed by Supreme Court Monitoring Committee order. O2 plant part of entire smelter complex constructed without license. #BanSterlite 5/n

Vedanta’s unlicensed construction of 2004 has been critically noted by the Madras High Court in its 2020 order confirming permanent closure of the Sterlite plant to highlight co’s disregard for law. (Para 584 of MHC Order) #BanSterlite 6/n

Vedanta’s current proposal is in continuation of its failed efforts at gaining back-door entry into its sealed smelter complex. On 2/12/2020, SC Judge Nariman rejected Vedanta’s request to open/maintain its plant. #BanSterlite 7/n

Current application prayers identical to application rejected by Justice Nariman except for addition of request to operate O2 plant in “national interest” (Yeah right!) This is insincere excuse whose sole intent is to reopen and gain access to entire plant. #BanSterlite 8/n

That is evident from Vedanta’s prayers for unrestrained access to entire plant, & prayer to restrain even GoTN from interfering with access to sealed complex. Wants to bypass GoTN, TNPCB. Wants to deal only with big biz-friendly Central Govt. #BanSterlite 9/n