Tuticorin firing: MHA in touch with TN Govt

New Delhi, May 24: The Ministry of Home Affairs has been in touch with Tamil Nadu Government on violent incidents in Tuticorin, a Home Ministry officials said here on Thursday.

“A detailed report has been sought on the sequence of events and circumstances leading to loss of human lives on May 22,” the official further said.

Tamil Nadu Government has also been asked to provide details of the action taken to restore peace and normalcy and has also been requested to furnish a detailed report regarding the Sterlite plant, the official added.

Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has also expressed grief over loss of 13 lives. He appealed for maintenance of peace and normalcy.

“I am deeply pained at the loss of precious lives during the agitation at Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu. The MHA has taken cognisance of the situation and sought a report on the incident and the prevailing situation from the state government,” Mr Singh said.

“My thoughts are with bereaved families and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. I appeal to the people in Tuticorin to remain calm and maintain peace and tranquility in the region,” he added.

Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba spoke to TN Chief Secretary on Wednesday and took stock of the situation and also assured him for any Central assistance if required by the state.

Eleven persons were killed and more than 50 injured in police firing on Tuesday as the three-month-long protest against Vedanta-owned Sterlite copper unit in Tuticorin district of Tamil Nadu turned violent.

The protest March on its 100th day turned violent when it moved towards district collector's office to demand the closure of the Sterlite Industries Ltd.