Petition Summary:
Every year on April 14th, thousands gather at the Annal Ambedkar Manimandapam in Raja Annamalai Puram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu to commemorate Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's birth anniversary. However, inadequate facilities and restrictive policies have consistently undermined the dignity and comfort of attendees, particularly affecting elderly, disabled, and young participants. Despite the Madras High Court’s intervention (W.P. No. 10056 of 2024 and Contempt Petition No. 1063 of 2024), basic amenities remain insufficient, and access continues to be restricted. The celebration of Dr. Ambedkar's legacy deserves better. We petition the Director of Information and Public Relations Department, the Chief Engineer of Public Works Department, and the Chennai Police Commissioner to implement the following changes:

Our Demands:
We urge the Tamil Nadu Government, through its Director of Information and Public Relations Department, the Chief Engineer of Public Works Department, and the Greater Chennai Police to implement the following measures to ensure a respectful and inclusive celebration:

1. Extended Access Hours:
   Allow the public access to the memorial from 5 AM to 10 PM every April 14th, ensuring attendees have ample time to participate in the celebrations without rushed evacuations.
2. Weather Protection:
   Cover “all” open spaces with Shamiana/Arabian Tents to protect attendees from harsh weather conditions mainly the intense heat. The Tents should accommodate all the attendees.
3. Seating and Amenities:
   Provide sufficient seating arrangements, including 1,500 chairs and 100 tables, especially for elderly, disabled, and young attendees.
4. Food and Water Distribution:
   Permit organized food and water distribution within the premises, eliminating the undignified practice of forcing attendees to eat on the streets.
5. Remove Public Access Restrictions During VIP Visits:
   Stop cordoning off the memorial for prolonged periods during VIP visits, which currently delays public access until late morning.

Why This Matters:

Implementing these changes would: 

• Ensure comfort and dignity for attendees of all ages and abilities.
• Reflect the values of inclusion and social justice championed by Dr. Ambedkar.
• Facilitate meaningful engagement through reading sessions, public discourse, and peaceful celebrations.
• Protect attendees from physical discomfort caused by inadequate seating or exposure to harsh weather.
• The current conditions force vulnerable attendees to stand for hours, face weather extremes, and eat on the streets—an indignity unworthy of an event honoring one of India’s greatest leaders.

Your Support is Needed:

By signing this petition, you stand in solidarity with Ambedkarites, Buddhists, and the general public in demanding respectful and inclusive celebrations at Annal Ambedkar Manimandapam.

Targeted Authorities:

• Director, Information and Public Relations Department, Chennai
• Chief Engineer, Public Works Department, Chennai
• Commissioner of Police, Greater Chennai
• Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mylapore
• Inspector of Police, E5 Police Station

Let’s ensure that future celebrations honor Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy with the dignity and respect it truly deserves.

Sign and share this petition to make a difference!