PMK demands implementation of SC order

Vellore, Tamil Nadu, Nov 22 (UNI) The Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), a key constituent of the DMK led Democratic Progressive Alliance (DPA) today demanded that the water level in the Mullaiperiyar dam be raised to 142 feet as per the Supreme Court order.

Talking to newspersons here, party President G K Mani flayed the Kerala Government for not allowing to raise the water level, despite the apex court, giving a clear verdict, allowing Tamil Nadu to raise the water level from the present 136 ft to 142 ft.

He said AIADMK leader J Jayalalithaa who was at the helm of affairs, when the Supreme Court delivered the verdict in February 2006, should have immediately taken steps to raise the water level, but failed in her duty.

As she had not taken immediate steps, the Kerala Government had brought amendments to its irrigation and water conservation act, thus thwarting the apex court order, he charged.

He said the party would stage black flag demonstration in all district headquarters in the State, to protest against the visit of Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapakse to India on November 26. The people of the State should hoist black flags atop of their houses and register their protests on that day, he said.

Mr Mani said it was unfortunate that judiciary was intervening in deciding the quantum of reservation to be fixed for the scheduled caste, scheduled tribe and backward classes.

While undertaking flood relief measures, the State Government should appoint a committee comprising government officials and local body representatives and ensure that the relief reached the needy.

Mr Mani said the party opposed to the government's move to disinvest in the profit-making Tamil Nadu Explosives Limited, a public sector undertaking.

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