The Supreme Court of India has slammed the Tamil Nadu government over its plan to install a statue of former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi in a public area, observing that such an initiative is not permissible using public funds.
A two-judge bench, comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Prashant Kumar Mishra, questioned the state government, asking, “Why are you using public funds for glorifying your former leaders?” The bench directed the government to withdraw its plea and seek relief from the Madras High Court instead.
The state had sought permission to place a bronze statue along with a name board near the public arch entrance of the Valliyoor Daily Vegetable Market on the Main Road in Tirunelveli district. However, the Supreme Court dismissed the request, upholding an earlier order of the Madras High Court that had denied permission for such installations in public spaces.
The High Court had highlighted concerns that such memorials often lead to traffic congestion and cause inconvenience to the general public. “The rights of citizens under the Constitution are to be protected. When the Supreme Court has barred such permissions, the State cannot issue orders granting them,” the High Court had stated.
This judgment comes amid ongoing debates across India regarding the use of public spaces and taxpayer money for constructing memorials or statues dedicated to political figures. Critics argue that public funds should be prioritized for civic infrastructure and welfare projects rather than commemorating politicians.
The Supreme Court’s order reinforces the principle that public money cannot be used to glorify individuals, regardless of their political stature, and underscores the need to balance public interest with political commemorations.