US proposal marks 40th anniversary of Bhopal gas tragedy

On the 40th anniversary of the Bhopal gas tragedy, a proposal has been introduced in the US Parliament to designate December 3 as "National Chemical Disaster Awareness Day." This resolution, led by Senator Jeff Merkley and Representatives Pramila Jayapal and Rashida Tlaib, aims to honor the victims and raise awareness about chemical disasters.

The Bhopal gas tragedy, one of history’s deadliest industrial disasters, occurred on December 2-3, 1984, when methyl isocyanate gas leaked from the Union Carbide plant in Bhopal, India. Over 22,000 people died, and more than half a million continue to suffer long-term effects.

Rep. Pramila Jayapal expressed concerns, stating, “The Bhopal gas tragedy was one of the world’s worst industrial disasters.” She emphasized the aftermath still affects the survivors, many suffering health issues from prolonged exposure to toxic chemicals.

Senator Jeff Merkley added, "Chemical disasters often result from companies prioritizing profits over safety. The Bhopal tragedy devastated millions, and its impact is still felt." The proposal highlights the lack of accountability for Union Carbide and its former CEO, Warren Anderson, charged with culpable homicide by the Indian government. Despite extradition efforts, Union Carbide representatives haven't appeared in Indian courts, and the parent, Dow Chemical, hasn't compelled participation since acquiring Union Carbide in 2001.

Decades after the tragedy, Bhopal residents still seek justice. The area remains polluted, and many families suffer from the disaster’s effects. Diseases like cancer, respiratory issues, and birth defects are prevalent in the affected areas.

Jayapal and Tlaib's proposal stresses the need for stronger US laws to prevent disasters and ensure accountability for corporations responsible for chemical accidents. The resolution calls for Union Carbide and Dow Chemical to compensate the victims, a responsibility they argue the companies have avoided. Tlaib remarked, "Dow took responsibility when it acquired Union Carbide. After 40 years, the victims are still waiting for justice, and Dow must compensate for the loss."

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