Justices M Sathyanarayanan and P Rajamanickam ordered notice in a public interest litigation filed by K Mahesh Raja, an advocate and resident of Manalur village. The petitioner stated that archeological excavations are carried

TNN | Sep 25, 2020, 04:01 IST
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Madurai: Madras high court on Thursday ordered notice in a plea which called upon the authorities not to grant permission for quarrying operations in Manalur village in Sivaganga district since archeological excavation sites are situated in the area.
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A division bench of Justices M Sathyanarayanan and P Rajamanickam ordered notice in a public interest litigation filed by K Mahesh Raja, an advocate and resident of Manalur village. The petitioner stated that archeological excavations are carried out at four villages — Keeladi, Manalur, Agaram and Kondhagai in the district from where several ancient artefacts were unearthed. Manalur irrigation tank is situated between Keeladi and Manalur excavation sites.
He stated that the irrigation tank acts as a source of water for agricultural activities and drinking water purposes. However, under the garb of carrying out kudimaramath works, illegal sand mining activities were taking place. Though he sent a representation to the authorities not to permit quarrying operations in Manalur village, there was no response. Hence, the petitioner moved HC Madurai bench which adjourned the case to October 13 for further hearing. tnn
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