New Delhi: The Madras High Court deliberated on Sunday over the burial arrangements for K Armstrong, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Tamil Nadu chief who was tragically murdered near his residence in Chennai. The court emphasized the need to avoid a situation akin to the Hathras stampede while addressing a plea seeking burial at the BSP office in Perambur.Courts cautionary observationDuring the hearing, the Madras High Court expressed concerns about the potential for unrest and logistical challenges if Armstrongs burial were to take place in a residential area like Perambur. Justice V Bhavani Subbarayan underscored the importance of public safety and highlighted the narrow roads in the area, urging authorities to prevent any mishap resembling past tragedies.Civic bodys proposed solutionsThe Additional Advocate General representing the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) informed the court that alternative burial sites had been identified, including one just a kilometer and a half from the BSP office. The GCC offered over 2,000 square feet of land for the burial, citing precedents such as the burial of late actor-politician Vijayakanth on a larger plot.Judicial scrutiny and future stepsJustice Subbarayan questioned the feasibility of conducting a burial in a densely populated residential locality, prompting consideration for an initial burial at a GCC-suggested site with potential relocation in the future. The court adjourned the hearing until noon today, allowing the petitioners counsel time to review and provide feedback on the identified burial locations.Recent developments in the caseArmstrongs murder, captured on CCTV, has led to the arrest of eight suspects, intensifying concerns over security and public order during the burial proceedings. The courts deliberations aim to ensure a peaceful resolution while upholding legal and safety standards.Continuation of legal proceedingsThe Madras High Court remains engaged in discussions to determine an appropriate burial site for Armstrong, balancing the familys wishes with public safety considerations amidst ongoing developments in the case.The hearing will resume at noon today to further address the burial arrangements for K Armstrong, reflecting the judiciarys commitment to a just and secure resolution.
