Shut down KKNPP, says Gram Sabha resolution

TIRUNELVELI: A resolution demanding immediate closure of Koodankulam Nuclear Power Project (KKNPP) was passed in the Gram Sabha meeting held at Koodankulam village panchayat on Monday.  By passing the resolution, people here have registered their unified opposition against KKNPP in a democratic manner as allowed by the Constitution.Unlike earlier Gram Sabha meetings that are known to be conducted only as a custom, people here participated in large numbers. Panchayat president Ezhilarasu accepted the proposal by the people to demand shutdown of KKNPP and a resolution to this effect was passed.“Instead of setting up such destructive power production units, the Central and State governments should set up renewable energy sources,” the resolution said. Panchayat members also pointed out that adapting to renewable energy could create more employment opportunities.  Apart from Koodankulam, Vijayapathi, Koothankuli and Levinjipuram panchayats that lie in proximity with the KKNPP too passed a similar resolution during the Gram Sabha meetings. “If the authorities continue their work at KKNPP after the village panchayats have passed such a resolution, it is nothing but gross violation of the Indian Constitution,” M Pushparayan, an anti-nuclear activist said.Panchayat members and others who participated in the Gram Sabha meeting at Koodankulam wore black badges to express their opposition against KKNPP.  People have also planned for a one-day fast at Idinthakarai near Koodankulam demanding shutdown of KKNPP on Tuesday.It is also learnt that Chettikulam panchayat’s resolution to pass a similar resolution meant that they have extended their support to KKNPP.  Since four village panchayats have passed resolutions demanding shutdown of KKNPP, the next move by the State government is eagerly expected as the resolution is bound  honoured.