TN Minister denies allegations against power project

Chennai, Dec 10 (UNI) Tamil Nadu Electricity Minister Arcot N Veerasamy today refuted Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) founder-leader S Ramadoss' allegation that the proposed 1,320 MW coal-based power plant by the Cuddalore Power Corporation (CPC) would deprive the inhabitants of their livelihood if their fertile lands were acquired for the project.

In a statement here, he claimed that the lands in the coastal villages identified for the project were barren and not fertile. The lands were unfit for cultivation, he added.

He denied Dr Ramadoss' remarks that the CPC promoter was related to him. The DMK Government had given permission for the project, considering the power position of the State.

Coming down heavily on Dr Ramadoss for putting spokes in various development projects, Mr Veerasamy alleged that the PMK leader had set up a college through a trust in 250 acres of land on the tank bund.

The Minister charged that Dr Ramadoss was bent upon stalling the achievements of Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, thereby creating ill-will among the electorate against the DMK. However, the public would not fall a prey to such tactics, he added.

Earlier, the PMK staged a demonstration before the District Collectorate against the setting up of the power plant.

UNI