The radical Indian weekly, Frontline, has over many years adopted uncompromising positions in suppo

Published by MAC on 2004-04-15

The radical Indian weekly, Frontline, has over many years adopted uncompromising positions in support of Indigenous and community rights, and against destructive mining. Imagine the surprise of many, therefore, to discover that its latest issue (April 23) includes a chunky illustrated supplement wholly in favour of nuclear (ie "uranium") power.

The costal area of Tamil Nadu targeted for a new nuclear station is already blighted by Vedanata/Sterlite's copper smelting (see Vedanta - the panto! A London Calling special), unchecked coral blasting (for the cement industry), ruthless exploitation by the "sand mafia" and the exploitation of mineral sands. Just to the north of Tamil Nadu lies the state of Andhra Pradesh where government plans to open a new uranium mine have temproarily been put on hold, following widespread opposition.

Posted below is a protest letter sent to Frontline's editor last week by S.P. Udayakumar, a prominent peace and anti-nuclear campaigner who has vigorously tried to highlight the dangers posed by the upcoming Koodankulam Nuclear Power project.

Also it's not only India which is racing to build more and more nuclear power plants with lucrative contracts for multinational companies, as a recent survey, reproduced here, in India's Business Standard" points out".