CPI launches signature drive opposing new Secretariat project in Pattinapakkam

The Communist Party of India launched a signature campaign on Sunday against the Tamil Nadu government plan to build an integrated Assembly-cum-Secretariat complex at Pattinapakkam in Chennai. CPI State secretary M. Veerapandian kicked off the protest drive, which focuses on a 25-acre land parcel located in the Foreshore Estate area.

Demands And Protests

Mr. Veerapandian stated that the sea and the coast belong to the fishing community, while urging the State government to cancel the Government Order issued for the project. Eight fishing villages have raised objections against the Pattinapakkam development. The party demanded that authorities explore alternative locations for the complex, such as the Guindy Race Course or the Nandanam Golf Ground. The campaign also presses for new housing blocks to replace worn-out residential tenements in Srinivasapuram, Mullikuppam, Mullimanagar, Nambikkai Nagar, Rajiv Gandhi Nagar, and Bhavanikuppam.

Context

Political parties and local residents frequently raise objections when large government infrastructure projects displace traditional livelihoods or coastal land use. Signature campaigns serve as a common public mobilisation tool in India to pressure administrations into reconsidering urban planning decisions. The protest drive will run until November 1.