MLA protest in assembly premises, demands plastic ban in Puducherry

A nominated BJP MLA caused a flutter on the Assembly premises here Monday by resorting to sudden dharna urging the Puducherry government to ban immediately production, sale and use of plastic products in the Union Territory on the lines of neighbouring Tamil Nadu. Holding a placard demanding a ban on plastic, V Saminathan staged a dharna at the main entrance of the Assembly hall. However, he gave up the agitation after security staff in the Assembly spoke to him.

Later, talking to reporters he said the Tamil Nadu government had announced a ban from January 1 in the state on plastic products. "Puducherry government should also follow suit and ensure the protection of environment and health of the people by effecting a ban on plastic commodities." Alleging that Puducherry was presenting an ugly look with plastic materials lying scattered at different places, he said a ban on plastic items should be imposed immediately.

The Tamil Nadu government had in June last announced a ban on plastic items, including non-biodegradable bags, from January 2019 in the interest of the environment and to "gift a plastic-free" state to future generations.