Need to restore Rajghat’s former glory: HC

New Delhi, April 27: The Delhi high court on Friday underlined the need for restoring the pristine glory of Mahatma Gandhi's memorial here.

A bench of Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C. Hari Shankar made the observation, while directing an inspection of Rajghat by professor K. T. Ravindran, former dean of School of Planning and Architecture, on April 30 along with advocate Satyakam, appointed local commissioner in the matter.

"I hope some work is done. We are very pleased," the bench said, adding that "there is no dispute that much needs to be done so that Rajghat is restored to its pristine glory".

The court was hearing a public interest litigation ( PIL) filed by Shyam Narayan Chouksey alleging that the Mahatma Gandhi's memorial was not being properly maintained.

The bench also took on record a report published by the Delhi Urban Art Commission ( DUAC) suggesting ways to improve and maintain the site.

"The counsel has placed a copy of the report published by the commission to improve and maintain some internal areas and parking in Rajghat. This report will provide useful inputs in restoring the site," the bench said.

It also directed that the report be provided to professor Ravindran, who may, if necessary, have a meeting with the authorities concerned, including the Rajghat Samadhi Committee ( RSC), which is responsible for the memorial’s maintenance, to make suggestions and ensure "restoration and preservation of all areas and environment of the samadhi".

The bench said that Mr Ravindran may call horticulture experts to assist with the landscape designing of the area, and sought an inspection report in this regard on the next date of hearing on May 22.

The high court also pulled up the RSC and the Central Public Works department ( CPWD), saying they had failed to perform their statutory duties.