Tue May 20 16:32:10 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Tamil Nadu’s Kudankulam Nuclear Plant: A History of Protests and Policy Shifts**
**Chennai, May 21, 2025** – The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) in Tamil Nadu has a history marked by intense public opposition and shifting political stances. This week, the passing of M.R. Srinivasan, former Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, brought the spotlight again on the complex journey of the project.
In 2011, facing vehement protests from residents of Idinthakarai village, Chief Minister Jayalalithaa initially urged the central government to halt the 2000-MW project. Citing safety concerns in the wake of the Fukushima disaster, she accused the Center of neglecting public fears. These protests were led by S.P. Udayakumar, of the People’s Movement Against Nuclear Energy (PMANE).
However, her stance evolved. In February 2012, amidst continued unrest, the state government formed an expert committee, which included M.R. Srinivasan. This committee, tasked with assessing the plant’s safety systems and addressing public concerns, signaled a potential shift in the state’s position. Srinivasan, a vocal supporter of the project, believed it was crucial for Tamil Nadu’s energy needs.
Within weeks, the committee submitted its report, and the government initiated talks with PMANE representatives. Subsequently, the Tamil Nadu Cabinet, under Jayalalithaa, approved the early commissioning of the KKNPP. A ₹500-crore development package for Kudankulam was also announced. Jayalalithaa declared the plant safe, citing comprehensive expert reviews.
The decision, while welcomed by industry facing power shortages, drew criticism from anti-nuclear activists. Reports also emerged of arrests of protestors near the project site.
After a six-month delay, authorities granted KKNPP officials access to the site, paving the way for the plant’s eventual operation. The plant now plays a significant role in Tamil Nadu’s energy supply.
First Piper 