Protest to preserve Madurai’s Rani Mangammal Chattiram

Madurai: Around 700 people staged a protest on Monday against the alleged plan to demolish the historic Rani Mangammal Chattiram opposite the Madurai railway station for private development.

The protest was held in front of the chattiram, with demonstrators raising slogans such as “Do not demolish Rani Mangammal Chattiram” and “Preserve historical monuments”.

Protesters said the chattiram, named after Queen Rani Mangammal, holds significant historical and cultural importance. They urged the government to abandon any demolition proposal, bring the structure under the archaeological department, and convert it into a heritage centre showcasing the queen’s achievements, historical records and rare documents.

However, a senior corporation official denied reports of any demolition plan. “There are no plans to demolish the Rani Mangammal Chattiram. The Karupatti Chattiram adjacent to it is being demolished, but the Rani Mangammal Chattiram will remain untouched,” the official said.

The official added that a signboard belonging to the Rani Mangammal Chattiram was accidentally damaged during the demolition of the neighbouring structure and would be repaired and reinstalled after the work is completed.

The protest was led by Rangaraj Naidu, state general secretary of the Tamizhaga Naidu Kootamaippu. Among those who participated were J P Naidu, president of the Madurai Nayakkar Vamsam, and several members of community and heritage organisations.