New Delhi, Apr 1 (UNI) The Supreme Court on Tuesday dismissed a petition filed by Tushar Gandhi, great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, challenging the Gujarat government's decision to revamp and redevelop the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad at an estimated cost of Rs 1,200 crore.

A bench comprising Justice M.M. Sundresh and Justice Rajesh Bindal rejected the Special Leave Petition filed by Gandhi against the Gujarat High Court's September 2022 verdict, which had earlier dismissed his challenge.

The Supreme Court, while dismissing the petition, said that there has been a delay of nearly 2.5 years in filing the petition, so it is not sustainable.

Tushar Gandhi argued that the redevelopment project undermines the Gandhian legacy, stating in his petition, “The proposed project will alter the topography of the century-old ashram to the tune of Rs1,200 crore and corrupt its ethos.

The project has purportedly identified over 40 congruent buildings for preservation, while approximately 200 structures will either be demolished or reconstructed.”

The Gujarat High Court, in its ruling, had taken note of the state government’s assurance that the existing ashram would not be disturbed, altered, or changed.

The court further observed that the redevelopment initiative would promote Mahatma Gandhi’s ideology and philosophy, benefiting humanity at large. It emphasized that the revamped Gandhi Ashram would serve as a center for learning for people of all age groups.

With the Supreme Court's dismissal, the Gujarat government’s Rs 1,200-crore project is set to proceed without legal hindrance.

UNI SNG KK