The Madras High Court emphasized the need to avoid incidents similar to Hathras. In a related matter, the court addressed a plea to bury Tamil Nadu BSP chief K Armstrong at the party office, stating that his burial should follow the recommendations of the city’s civic body. This directive reflects the court’s proactive stance on ensuring justice and order.
Chennai: Madras High Court announced that the burial of K Armstrong, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Tamil Nadu chief, should take place at alternative locations identified by the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC).
The court emphasized the importance of avoiding a situation akin to the Hathras stampede. This observation made during a hearing concerning a petition that sought permission to inter Armstrong’s remains at the BSP office in Chennai’s Perambur area.
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Armstrong fatally attacked by unknown assailants near his Chennai residence on Friday. Authorities have since arrested eight suspects linked to the murder.
During the hearing, the Additional Advocate General noted that the civic authorities had proposed three potential burial sites, one of which is approximately 1.5 kilometers from the BSP office.
The Additional Advocate General stated,
“The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) was prepared to allocate over 2,000 square feet of land for Armstrong’s burial.”
He referenced the burial of the late actor-politician Vijayakanth, which took place on 27,000 square feet of land with the necessary permissions granted.
Justice V Bhavani Subbarayan raised concerns about conducting a burial in a residential area, emphasizing that narrow roads in Perambur could lead to a situation similar to the Hathras stampede tragedy, which should be avoided.
Justice Subbarayan suggested that Armstrong’s burial could initially take place at a location proposed by the GCC and be relocated to a more suitable site later.
The hearing adjourned until 12 pm today after the petitioner’s counsel requested time to gather instructions about the alternative burial sites.
Meanwhile, Armstrong’s body placed at the Corporation School Ground for the public to pay their respects. A significant police presence stationed outside the ground to maintain peace and ensure public safety.
BSP chief Mayawati, along with her nephew and the party’s national coordinator Akash Anand, travelled to Chennai to honour Armstrong.
The High Court‘s dual focus on preventing another Hathras-like incident and addressing the respectful burial of a revered leader reflects its commitment to upholding justice and respecting the contributions of social leaders. This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and reform in law enforcement practices, as well as the importance of honoring those who have devoted their lives to social causes.