The Madras High Court has upheld the sealing of the Sterlite Copper smelter plant in Thoothukkudi, Tamil Nadu. The plant remains shut down since April last year, as the state government said it causes environmental pollution. The National Green Tribunal gave a verdict in favour of the Vedanta group that owns the plant. However, it was struck down by the apex court saying it has no power to issue the order and asked the litigants to approach the Madras High Court. The High Court in its verdict today has upheld the state government's decision to seal the plant.<br />''<br />''It may be noted that 13 people were killed in police firing in May last year when a group of people demonstrated seeking the plant's permanent closure. The Sterlite management claimed before the High Court that the state government has taken the decision to seal its premises to satisfy the demonstrators. However, the state government said its decision is backed by the data based on environmental studies.<br />