Protest Through Stillness: Shavasana Against Hazardous Waste Disposal

A protest using the 'Shavasana' yoga pose took place in response to the planned disposal of Union Carbide waste in Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh. Protesters, including local committees and yoga expert Pradeep Dubey, emphasized the silent demonstration to convey their fears and demand careful consideration of environmental impacts.

A unique form of protest unfolded on Wednesday as a group performed 'Shavasana' in reaction to plans for disposing of Union Carbide waste linked to the Bhopal gas tragedy. This disposal is set for Pithampur, Dhar district, where 337 metric tonnes of waste from Bhopal are earmarked for incineration.

The demonstration, involving twelve individuals from the Pithampur Bachao Samiti, Pithampur Raksha Samiti, and yoga instructor Pradeep Dubey, took place at the bus stand. Dubey pointed out that the Shavasana pose was chosen to peacefully express their deepest concerns and to urge authorities to thoroughly address the waste disposal plan.

Protesters, including Dr. Hemant Hirole from the Pithampur Bachao Samiti, have been vocal since the waste arrived, seeking answers to technical inquiries. A strong public dialogue has highlighted health and environmental fears, while local authorities work on demystifying the potential risks of incineration at the industrial site.

(With inputs from agencies.)