Published On : Mon, Jun 5th, 2023

Mahagenco files caveat in Nagpur HC against opponents of new Koradi plant units

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Nagpur: The Maharashtra State Power Generation Company (Mahagenco) has filed a caveat in the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court against 87 individuals who expressed opposition to the proposed construction of two 660 MW coal power units at Koradi during a recent public hearing.

The caveat was filed by Mahagenco through its counsel, Mohit Khajanchi, out of apprehension that any of the 87 citizens who participated in the environmental public hearing, conducted by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) on May 29 in Koradi, might challenge the proceedings by moving the High Court.

In order to notify the 87 proposed petitioners named as opposite parties, including former MP Prakash Jadhav and MLA Vikas Thakre, Mahagenco has sent notices of the caveat via registered post and email.

The filed caveat requests that no orders be passed without proper notice to the caveator, as per Section 148-A of the Code of Civil Procedure, in any application seeking a stay, status quo, injunction, or any other interim relief in relation to a writ petition under Article 226 and/or 227 of the Constitution of India.

However, members of civil society and citizens have strongly criticized Mahagenco’s move, issuing a joint statement condemning the power generation company. They allege that the public hearing was conducted in violation of the norms set by the Union Environment Ministry and describe it as chaotic. The statement expressed the citizens’ trust in the judiciary and the Constitution, vowing to oppose the project using peaceful means and public awareness campaigns until the authorities acknowledge their concerns.

Responding to the caveat, General Secretary of MPCC, Vishal Muttemwar, referred to it as a desperate measure by Mahagenco to intimidate concerned citizens and environmental activists who are rightfully opposing the expansion of the Koradi plant. He further suggested that the government is attempting to circumvent established norms and procedures, indicating potential political pressure to push the project forward regardless of the consequences.

The situation remains contentious as Mahagenco’s caveat sets the stage for a potential legal battle with the citizens who oppose the construction of new coal power units at Koradi.