Cautioning against use of police force on anti-KKNPP activists, DMK Chief M Karunanidhi on Friday urged the Jayalalithaa government to hold talks with them to find an amicable solution to the issue.
"At this crucial time, those in power should not think of suppressing the agitators and the public, instead invite their representatives for talks to create a congenial atmosphere," the 89-year old former Chief Minister said.
In a statement here, he referred to reports that the trial run of the first unit of the Indo-Russian venture was successful and clarifications by the authorities to allay apprehensions of people over the tests.
He also noted that the plant director had stated that no harm would be caused to the environment or public.
However, at the same time, the anti-nuclear activists had laid siege to the KKNPP employees township recently protesting against the series of pre-commissioning tests.
Karunanidhi's remarks come amid the ongoing tests ahead of expected commissioning of the plant this month, which have led to escalated protests.
The DMK patriarch recalled his statement issued in September, 2012 after the police crackdown on the agitators, in which he had suggested that Centre and state should immediately initiate dialogue with the protesters' leaders to find a solution.