LONDON, April 11 (NNN-AGENCIES) — A UK Supreme Court has ruled that Zambian communities can seek justice and compensation in British courts after accusing mining group Vedanta of being responsible for polluting their water supply.
Rights groups are hailing the ruling as a significant breakthrough that could lead to other communities in developing countries seeking compensation in British courts.
London-based Vedanta had argued that the case should be heard in Zambia where its subsidiary KCM has been accused of polluting communities near its copper mine.
The human rights law firm Leigh Day brought the case on behalf of 1,800 Zambians and argued that they would not be able to get justice in a Zambian court.
Vedanta and KCM say they will defend themselves against any claims. — NNN-AGENCIES