PANJIM: Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar Thursday launched a scathing attack on environmentalists claiming they should not criticize the government on mining while ‘sitting in AC rooms’.

In his reply to the discussion on the Budget 2013-14, Parrikar claimed that mining industry was very crucial to strengthen the financial status of Goa. “I am not supporting the mine owners but for that (sins of mine owners) why should the common man be punished?” he asked.