New Delhi, Aug. 25: Vedanta Resources said on Wednesday it would seek other sources of bauxite in India after its plans for a mine in an area held sacred by the tribals were blocked by the government.
Vedanta Resources, owned by Indian billionaire, Mr Anil Agarwal, wanted to start an open-cast mine in the Niyamgiri Hills, Orissa to feed a nearby aluminium refinery, but the project was struck down on Tuesday by the environment ministry.
The environment minister, Mr Jairam Ramesh, had accused Vedanta of violating environmental rules and showing “blatant disregard” for thousands of Dongria and Kutia Kondh tribals who believe the hills to be sacred.
Vedanta India spokesman, Mr Pavan Kaushik, however, said, “Niyamgiri was the preferred source because of its location. Now we will have to get it from elsewhere.” \