Tamil Nadu Urges Withdrawal of Approval for ONGC Hydrocarbon Project

Speedy Summary

• Tamil Nadu government advised the state Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) to withdraw clearance given to ONGC for drilling onshore exploratory wells in Ramanathapuram district.
• Minister Thangam Thennarasu reiterated chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s policy against allowing any hydrocarbon-related projects in the state, citing concerns over farmers’ and public interests.
• Poovulagin Nanbargal, a climate organization, opposed the clearance, labeling it deceptive towards farmers and warned of protests if ONGC proceeds with the plan.
• AMMK founder T.T.V. Dhinakaran also voiced opposition to such proposals and suggested expanding the scope of the Tamil Nadu Protected Agricultural Zone Development Act, 2020.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The statement by Tamil Nadu’s government reflects its strong stance against hydrocarbon exploration projects due to socio-environmental concerns raised by farmers and public groups. Farmers’ fears of potential ecological harm threaten agricultural sustainability in key regions like Ramanathapuram. The political consensus around rejecting such initiatives-from ruling leadership to opposition figures-highlights widespread resistance within both civil society and political circles in Tamil Nadu.

This unified position may impact future industrial policies concerning resource exploration while underscoring regional priorities for agriculture protection over economic development tied to hydrocarbons.

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