The debate as to whether nuclear power is a safe, suitable and essential option for India has been going on for many decades. While the proponents of the nuclear power have been offering many arguments in favour of the option, there have been any numbers of issues raised by other sections of the society who consider it to be not the best solution to meet the legitimate energy requirements on a sustainable basis. A holistic approach towards nuclear power in the Indian context is very essential before India commits itself to additional nuclear power plants. All the related issues from technical, economic, social, environmental and even inter-generational perspective need careful consideration keeping in view the long term implications of a nuclear power policy. Most importantly such a long term policy should not be pursued without people’s effective participation.