Top Court Cites Delay, Upholds Gujarat High Court’s Decision
The Supreme Court of India, on Tuesday, rejected a plea filed by Tushar Gandhi, the great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, challenging the redevelopment project of the historic Sabarmati Ashram. A bench comprising Justices M.M. Sundresh and Rajesh Bindal declined to interfere, highlighting the delay of over two years in filing the petition.
Tushar Gandhi had approached the apex court after his plea was dismissed by the Gujarat High Court in 2022. Gandhi argued that the planned redevelopment would significantly alter the original landscape of the historic site.
Concerns Over Preservation and Demolition
In his petition, Gandhi expressed concerns over the extensive changes planned for the ashram. According to his plea, the redevelopment project proposed retaining only around 40 existing structures, while demolishing or reconstructing approximately 200 others. Gandhi emphasized that such drastic alterations could compromise the heritage and authenticity of the ashram, historically associated with Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy.
However, the Supreme Court bench stated that mere apprehensions about potential violations of assurances provided by the state government could not form sufficient grounds to challenge the project.
Gujarat Government’s Assurance on Heritage Protection
Earlier, in the Gujarat High Court, Advocate General Kamal Trivedi, representing the Gujarat government, had assured that the main premises of Sabarmati Ashram, spread over five acres, would remain untouched by the redevelopment efforts. Following this commitment, the Gujarat High Court disposed of Gandhi’s petition, expressing confidence that the primary heritage structures would not be compromised.
Gandhi’s Demand for Oversight by National Gandhi Smarak Nidhi (NGSN)
Tushar Gandhi had also requested through his Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that the redevelopment be conducted under the supervision of the National Gandhi Smarak Nidhi (NGSN). His objective was to ensure adherence to the authentic historical and cultural integrity of the site.
Sabarmati Ashram: A Symbol of National Heritage
Sabarmati Ashram, popularly known as Gandhi Ashram, was established by Mahatma Gandhi in Ahmedabad in 1917. It remains an enduring symbol of India's struggle for independence and a prominent historical site attracting both national and international visitors.
The Supreme Court’s decision effectively clears the way for the redevelopment to proceed, relying heavily on the assurances provided by the state government regarding preservation.
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