In a dramatic turn of events at the Avadi Corporation council meeting, AIADMK councillor A Prakash staged a walkout, vehemently opposing a recent resolution to convert the Amma Marriage Hall into a temporary sessions court. This protest comes exactly one month after the corporation passed a no-objection resolution for the conversion, sparking a heated debate over the utilization of public infrastructure.
Councillor's Stand on Public Welfare
A Prakash argued that the Amma Marriage Hall, located within the Tamil Nadu Urban Development Habitat complex in Avadi, was originally built to serve economically disadvantaged families who cannot afford expensive wedding venues. He urged the corporation to identify an alternative location for the sessions court, emphasizing the hall's intended purpose for community benefit. His comments ignited chaos in the council hall, with ruling party councillors objecting to his stance, leading to a tense atmosphere during the proceedings.
Details of the Amma Marriage Hall
Constructed during the previous AIADMK regime at a cost of ₹11 crore, the Amma Mandapam boasts impressive facilities, including:
- A kitchen and dining hall capable of seating 400 people
- An air-conditioned wedding hall with a capacity of 700 seats
- Bridal suites for convenience
- Solar panels for sustainable energy
- CCTV surveillance for security
- Ample parking facilities
Despite construction being completed over three years ago, the facility has never been inaugurated and has remained locked, raising questions about its underutilization.
Corporation's Clarification on the Conversion
Avadi Corporation Commissioner R Saranya clarified that while the corporation has issued a no-objection certificate for the conversion, formal permission is still required from other relevant departments. This highlights the procedural complexities involved in repurposing the hall, as multiple governmental bodies must approve such changes.
The controversy underscores broader issues of urban planning and public resource allocation in Chennai, with stakeholders debating whether to prioritize judicial infrastructure or community welfare amenities. The walkout by the AIADMK councillor reflects ongoing political tensions and the challenges in balancing administrative decisions with public needs.
