After authorities submitted that the renovation at Gandhi Memorial Museum here was almost complete, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court closed a public interest litigation petition that sought a direction to authorities to expeditiously complete the renovation and reopen it and its library for public access.

A Division Bench of Justices C.V. Karthikeyan and R. Sakthivel said the work has to be done in an aesthetically good manner to create a proper ambience for the visitors.

“We are sure that after it is reopened, the general public who visit the memorial and its library would be benefitted from understanding and getting knowledge about the philosophy of the Father of the Nation” the judges said.

The court closed the petition filed by A.V. Kathir of Madurai. The petitioner said the Gandhi Memorial Museum, established in 1959, is one of the most significant institutions in India dedicated to preserving and promoting the life, teachings, ideals and contributions of Mahatma Gandhi.

He said more than three years ago the authorities closed the museum and its library for renovation, restoration, modernisation, and maintenance work. The continued closure of the museum and its library deprived the public from accessing the valuable historical, educational and research resources.

Published - July 25, 2026 11:14 pm IST