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Tata Tea did not pay off ultras: chairman

Tata Tea chairman Ratan Tata today reiterated that the company had not paid protection money to any militant organisation for its smooth operation in Assam.

Responding to the queries from shareholders at the 35th annual general meeting of the company in Calcutta today, Tata said Tata Tea had never appeased the United Liberation Front of Asom or paid any protection money to the ultras. This, though its employees their families in Assam worked under the shadow of militancy.

He said in line with the company's policy to deal with the militants, Tata Tea embarked upon welfare schemes for the people of the region and offered medical treatment to the people of the area in other cities of the country.

"Our stand has been vindicated by the Supreme Court and we continue with the same policy,'' Tata said, complementing the employees for facing the militants' challenge with spirit.