University of Madras officials ask government to reconsider memorial site proposal

Officials of the University of Madras have asked the Tamil Nadu government to reconsider a proposal to build a memorial complex on part of the University Union Grounds in Chetpet, Chennai. Registrar Rita John met Higher Education Secretary Dheeraj Kumar on Thursday to present concerns raised by physical education directors and sportspersons. She said the Secretary assured her that he would take up the matter with the authorities concerned.

The proposed complex would commemorate Queen Velu Nachiyar, Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, B.R. Ambedkar, K.

Kamaraj and Anjalai Ammal. Department sources said no decision had yet been taken on transferring the land. University representatives have asked the government to consult the university administration, physical education directors of affiliated colleges, the Sports Department, players and other stakeholders before proceeding.

They also requested that alternative locations be examined so the existing ground could remain available for sports and physical education. The university said the site should be developed as a modern multi-sport facility. It asked the government to consider long-pending proposals for a swimming pool, tennis courts, a men’s hostel and a master plan for the ground.

Earlier, 25 physical education directors and 100 university players signed a petition to the Registrar. They raised concerns about the possible loss of trees and bird habitat during construction and said public statues could bring uncontrolled visitors and trespassing. The petition also cited safety concerns for students, particularly women athletes, parking difficulties and possible disruption to training.

The university officials’ position is that wider consultation and examination of other sites should precede any decision on the memorial complex.