Date:05/08/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/08/05/stories/2008080550770300.htm

Tamil Nadu - Salem

BJP, Trinamool Congress members observe fast

Special Correspondent

SALEM: Members of Bharathiya Janata Party (BJP) and Trinamool Congress observed a fast on Monday condemning the move to permit a private iron and steel company to mine ore from Kanchamalai near here.

The members claimed that Kanchamalai, a hill near here was rich with rare plants of medicinal value.

Tradition

The hill also known as Sanjeevi hills had a hoary tradition and historical and religious value. But unfortunately the Tamil Nadu Government had decided to permit a private player to source iron ore from the hill.This move, they claimed, would destroy the fragile eco system and decimate the hill itself.

Monuments

They said that they would support the agitation of the people who were living in villages situated at the foothills of the Kanchamalai. The members also insisted that farm lands and monuments of historical and religious value should be protected.

BJP State general secretary V. Ramesh and State president Tamil Nadu Trinamool Congress Ganesh presided over the function.