D-1 | Water
A very recent report [1] proves that tens of thousands [2] people continue to be contaminated by the toxic chemicals resulting directly or indirectly from the catastrophe of Union Carbide, still 25 years afterwards. This report shows well that these chemicals and heavy metals are present in the grounds, plants and animals, and even in the mother's milk of the mothers nursing their children. Conclusions of this report completely counteracts the recent statements, made by 'Bhopal Gas Tragedy Relief and Rehabilitation Minister' Babulal Gaur, who said: "The plant is being opened [3] to help people get rid of the apprehension and misconception that the chemical wastes lying in the factory are still harmful and are polluting the ground water of nearby localities".
A major international scandal
The company, Union Carbide (now owned by Dow Chemical), claims that "All liabilities regarding the disaster were settled when Union Carbide concluded a $470million compensation settlement with New Delhi in 1989" But, this 'settlement' only pertains to the civil suit and, in fact, Union Carbide and its CEO are fugitives from Indian justice on CRIMINAL CHARGES of culpable homicide. Furthermore, the civil settlement only ever covered injuries arising from gas exposure and NOT birth defects or any of the later environmental poisoning and related illnesses.
[1] Report published on decembre 1, 2009 [2] Approximately 30.000 people drink and wash themselves with contaminated water, every day [3] The Indian authorities wanted to open the site for the 25 years of the catastrophe. What will not be done (click for more informations).