August 06 – Hiroshima Day
On the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, we remember the thousands of lives destroyed by nuclear attacks and reaffirm our commitment to a world free from nuclear weapons and nuclear power. Hiroshima is not merely a memory of the past—it is a warning for the present.
Nuclear power is neither clean nor just. From uranium mining and the irreversible risks of accidents, radiation exposure, land acquisition, and displacement to the radioactive waste, the nuclear fuel chain leaves behind generations of environmental destruction and public health impacts. In a world increasingly marked by geopolitical tensions, expanding nuclear infrastructure also strengthens the logic of militarisation and deepens the dangerous nexus between civilian and military nuclear ambitions.
Today, while the world faces escalating wars, militarisation, climate crises, and ecological collapse, the Government of India is aggressively expanding its nuclear programme. The push for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and the amendments in the law opening up the nuclear sector to private players is a threat to the security of the people. Along with this, weakening of the liability for nuclear damage is clearly being done to evade accountability and promoting corporate interests. Instead of learning from the lessons of Hiroshima, governments across the world are accelerating nuclear expansion by promoting new reactors and extending the life of ageing plants under the false promise of climate action and energy security.
Across India, people are courageously resisting these destructive projects. From the historic struggle at Kudankulam to the people’s movements in Cheemeni, Chhindwara, jaitapur, Chutka, and many other regions, communities are defending the lands, livelihoods, waters, forests, and future generations against nuclear expansion. The resistance is rooted in perspectives of ecological sustainability, and social justice.
Friends of the Earth India continues to stand against such destructive nuclear projects. On this Hiroshima Day, we assert the need for a united campaign against nuclear power, nuclear militarisation, and corporate control over our energy future.
In Solidarity
*Friends of the Earth, India*