The action committee members had earlier made it clear that they would never let waste-laden lorries into the factory premises again or allow the factory management to resume its usual operations, ignoring the public grievances. They had declared that any attempt to resume the factory operations, ignoring the environmental issues, would be fought legally. They had also made it clear that no waste-laden lorries would be allowed to enter the area again in the wake of the intensified public protest. The issue attracted State-wide attention last year when protests against the unit turned violent, resulting in clashes between demonstrators and the police. Several police personnel and protesters were injured in the clashes, while the plant and vehicles on the premises were damaged by arson.