The Uthamapalayam Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) has recommended closure of the stone quarries in Cumbum as a result of the murder of an activist Sasi alias Sasikumar a few days ago. The official, it is said, had submitted a report to the District Collector, Theni, for action on Thursday.
While the stone quarries were run in the name of self-help groups, the activist had raised objections and demanded closure as it affected the eco-system along the Western Ghats.
A few days ago, the activist had informed his friends and relatives that he was âinvitedâ by some quarry operators for a âmeetingâ at a community centre in Cumbum, where he was allegedly assaulted with a knife. He died of injuries in a few hours. The police have registered a case against 10 persons and investigation is under way.
Under such circumstances, the RDO had recommended the closure of quarries to maintain law and order in the region, the officials added.
Published â August 28, 2025 08:55 pm IST
