Chennai: Madras High Court on Tuesday set aside the former AIADMK government's decision to convert Jayalalithaa's house -- Veda Nilayam -- to Poes Garden. The AIADMK has reportedly wanted to acquire the property to build a memorial for the late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa.
The court further questioned the petitioners on the necessity of the second memorial for the late CM. Jayalalithaa's memorial is already built at the Marina beach.
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The petitioners and Jayalalithaa's nephews J Deepak and J Deepa were questioned by the court about the reason for this move. Justice Seshasayee also rejected the former government's plea that the acquisition for in the public interest.
In a counter-affidavit, the Acquisition Officer said that the conversion of residences of leaders into government memorials is not a new phenomena, reports The Hindu.
“Apart from being a beacon of inspiration to residents of Tamil Nadu, the proposed memorial at Veda Nilayam will also serve as a tourist attraction. Therefore, the acquisition should be considered as falling within the meaning of public purpose,” said Acquisition Officer as quoted by The Hindu.
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