Tamil Nadu's Decision To Build 'Pen' Monument Challenged In SC

The plea requested the Apex Court to issue directions to stall the construction of the monument or any other developmental works undertaken in the coastal region of Tamil Nadu.

The petitioner also cited that the memorial received objections from fishermen's associations and political parties. 

A Madurai resident has moved a plea in the Supreme Court challenging Tamil Nadu government's decision to construct 134-ft-tall 'pen' statue as a tribute to former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi on Marina Beach. The petitioner in the plea said that the activities are likely to be carried out in strictly restricted areas under CRZ notification. 

KK Ramesh, a resident of Madurai in his petition as per PTI said, "The expert opinions suggest that the devastating floods faced in recent years Tamil Nadu this year are the immediate result of uncontrolled construction activities on sea shores and unscrupulous trespass into the natural path of backwaters."

"Uncontrolled construction activities in these areas would have devastating effects on the natural water flow that may ultimately result in severe natural calamities," the plea said.

In the plea, the petitioner requested the SC to prohibit the burial of mortal remains in all coastal areas of all states in India. He also sought the court to cancel Tamil Nadu government's decision to construct the 'pen' monument. 

Further, the petitioner said, “The state government did not approach Madras High Court to construct the 134 feet tall ‘Pen’ statue inside the Marina beach near the Kalaignar Karunanidhi memorial. That all departments of State Government gave clearance certificates in a quick manner and violated laws and court orders.”

The petitioner also said that there are many places across Chennai where the memorial can be set up but constructing the memorial on the beach will impact the marine ecosystem. 

He also cited that the memorial received objections from fishermen's associations and political parties. 

As a result, the plea requested the Apex Court to issue directions to stall the construction of the monument or any other developmental works undertaken in the coastal region of Tamil Nadu.