Nine killed in India environmental protests

Nine people have been killed in clashes during environmental protests in India.

Violence erupted after protesters took to the streets in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu over a copper smelter that residents say is causing environmental damage.

Police say the protesters stormed government buildings in the port city of Tuticorin. They claim to have opened fire after the violence intensified, alleging stones were thrown at officers and several vehicles set on fire.

Protesters say the plant, owned by the Sterlite Copper subsidiary of the Vedanta conglomerate, is polluting ground water in the area and threatens the fishing industry.

The plant has been shut for more than 50 days due to alleged non-compliance with environmental rules – allegations the company denies.