The Kerala High Court stepped in on Friday to block the inauguration of a controversial martyr's memorial. The memorial was allegedly built by activists from the Students' Federation of India (SFI) without any official permission. This unauthorized construction sits on the grounds of the Government Law College in Thiruvananthapuram.
Court Issues Firm Directives
Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas delivered the order in response to a petition. The petition came from Akshay Krishnan, a law student residing in Vattiyoorkavu, Thiruvananthapuram. Krishnan legally challenged the erection of this memorial on the college campus.
The High Court issued clear instructions to several officials. It directed the District Collector of Thiruvananthapuram, the college principal, and the Museum Police station house officer. Their task is to ensure no inauguration, unveiling, or any ceremonial function takes place. This ban applies to any unauthorized construction or statue on the college premises. The order remains in effect until the court disposes of the petition.
Ensuring Strict Compliance
The court further emphasized strict compliance. It stated that the District Collector must ensure this, either personally or through subordinates. The Police Station House Officer (SHO) is also tasked with this duty. The petition hearing has been adjourned and will resume on February 6.
Allegations of Unauthorized Construction
According to the petitioner's claims, SFI activists started building a permanent structure. They described it as a 'Rakthasakshi Mandapam' or 'Stoopam' within the campus. This construction allegedly began without any permission, sanction, or approval. No government body, public administration office, or college authority granted consent.
The petition makes further serious allegations. It claims the activists blatantly violated a stop memo. The college principal issued this memo on January 11. Despite this order and despite police intervention, the construction continued. Activists, along with certain outsiders, reportedly worked on the illegal structure during night hours.
The petitioner also stated they received reliable information. A state political leader was scheduled to inaugurate this unauthorized structure. The inauguration was planned for Saturday, January 17. The High Court's order has now put a stop to those plans.
