The National Green Tribunal court dismissed the Tamil Nadu government’s order to close down Vendata’s copper smelter plant in Thoothukudi, on Saturday. The company was shut down by the Tamil Nadu government in May after violent protests erupted over the alleged pollution caused by Sterlite.

However, Vendata has been ordered to deposit Rs. 100 crore within a period of three years for the welfare of the residents in the area. “We allow this appeal, set aside the impugned orders and direct the TNPCB (Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board) to pass a fresh order of renewal of consent and authorization to handle hazardous substances, within three weeks from today,” the National Green Tribunal said in the order.

Following the Tribunal’s order, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami said that they will challenge the NGT’s order in the Supreme Court.

On May 22, the crowd staged a protest in Thoothukudi when the police had opened fire, which led to the death of 13 people, and the injury of several others. The Tribunal’s judgement has put an end to the 6-month long battle between Vendata and the Tamil Nadu government.