Minister backtracks from earlier stand

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Following severe criticism and media flak over the move to rob the tribals of  their land at Attappady to benefit Suzlon company,  Revenue Minister  Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan  on Monday backtracked  from his earlier stand. Addressing a news conference here,  he  said what was presented as a package was  just a proposal and government had to act in accordance with the law.  He said government  had to abide by the laws pertaining to the tribal land before venturing out for implementing the package. Asked about reservations expressed by Congress MLA V D Satheesan on the proposed package, Thiruvanchoor said Satheesan had voiced his opinion without knowing the facts.  “Those who had not seen Attappady are making comments.  The government need not have to play the role of a middleman” he said.   The minister said  300 files were settled in the one-day function held for settling the files as part of the government’s 100 day programme.