Why objection to Lakshmi Bai statue at Shahi Idgah Park: Delhi HC
New Indian ExpressNEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court, in a hearing on Tuesday, expressed confusion over the opposition to the installation of a statue of Maharani Lakshmi Bai at Shahi Idgah Park in Sadar Bazar, clarifying that the freedom fighter is not a religious figure. The court did not wish for the matter to escalate into an “unnecessary flashpoint.” The division bench, led by Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, was addressing an appeal filed by the Shahi Idgah Managing Committee, challenging a previous order that declined to stop the Municipal Corporation of Delhi from erecting the statue. Let’s avoid any forced decisions that could lead to unrest.” The counsel for the appellants acknowledged Maharani Lakshmi Bai’s national significance but pointed out that the park holds significance for certain religious observances, which was the source of concern. Last week, the High Court directed the Shahi Idgah Managing Committee to issue an apology for making what it termed “scandalous” remarks about a recent ruling from a single judge regarding disputed land ownership.