CPI(M) claims encroachment on children's park land in Dindigul

The Communist Party of India (Marxist), or CPI(M), claims that private individuals have illegally taken over land in Dindigul meant for a children's park. They say this encroachment is happening with the help of powerful political figures. The party has called on the Chief Minister to step in and protect the interests of the community. CPI(M.) Councillor S. Ganesan stated that the land is located in R.M. Colony 12th Cross and is worth more than ₹5 crore. This 7,912 square meter area was originally set aside for a children's park when the housing plot was created nearly thirty years ago by the Tamil Nadu Housing Board. Concerned about the fenced land, Ganesan asked local authorities for information. The Town Planning Officer inspected the site on December 10, 2024, and confirmed that the land was indeed fenced. Following this, the Corporation Commissioner, N. Ravichandran, requested information from the Tamil Nadu Housing Board regarding the land's current status. BJP Councillor Dhanapalan has also weighed in on the matter. He wrote to the Mayor, urging her to protect the land and ensure the children's park is established. He pointed out that many parks in Dindigul are either occupied by encroachers or not maintained, which poses problems for the community. Dhanapalan believes the encroachment is a serious violation and has called for a CBI investigation. Officials from the Tamil Nadu Housing Board mentioned that they originally allotted a total of 94.50 acres of land for residential purposes in 1992. Of this area, 10% was designated for public utilities, including the 7,912 square meters meant for the children's park. However, a source from the board indicated that the original allotment was canceled and amended, leading to uncertainty about the current land status. In a conversation with local media, Dindigul Mayor Illamathi stated that the Tamil Nadu Housing Board had not transferred the children's park land to the civic authorities and expressed that she was unaware of the situation. The allegations from CPI(M) have sparked concern among political allies and could create tension between parties in the area.