ALAPPAD: Amidst protests, opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala on Monday visited Alappad village and announced solidarity on those protesting against mining activities in the area. A verbal dispute broke out between the employees of the Indian Rare Earths Ltd (IRE) and the local residents during Chennithala’s visit. When employees said that suspension of mining will result in the loss of their jobs, the protestors said mining is a threat to their lives and houses and so it should be stopped.

Chennithala asked the government to hold talks with samara samithi leaders. Taking a decision without holding talks with them was not right. The chief minister should intervene on the issue. There are serious environmental issues in Alappad. The report of assembly’s environment committee should be revealed. Mining without any restrictions will create big problems, opined Chennithala. He strongly criticised E P Jayarajan’s statement that the protestors who carried out the protest at Alappad are from Malappuram. Those protesting should not be criticised. Chennithala asked the minister to withdraw his statement and apologise.