Scores of youth Congress cadres were arrested in Tuticorin yesterday when they protested against the continuance o Sterlite Industries, whose continued operations have been objected to by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Congrol Board (TNPCB) after it turned down the company’s plea to resume its license to operate.

People of 12 villages in Turicorin District have been protesting for many days now demanding closure of the environmentally hazardous Sterlite Industries and to stall the company’s expansion project.  Congress took up the protest in a big way on Sunday when Youth Congress cadres organized protests at various parts of the port city of Tuticorin.

They also hoisted black flags at many places to express their deep resentment at the continuing of operations by Sterlite Industries.  Surprisingly enough, people were also seen siding with Congress cadres as they raised slogans against the management of the company as well as the AIADMK-led State Government.

When the protesters attempted to lay siege to Sterlite Industries, police stepped in took them into custody.  Youths and others protested against the Sterlite Industries by sitting inside a local church on a day-long fast protest.