Justice G R Swaminathan pointed out that while a statue may have “symbolic value”, it is also “property in the legal meaning of the term”.

‘Tehsildar has no power to seize’: Madras High Court orders statue’s return, installation in Sivakasi
‘Tehsildar has no power to seize’: Madras High Court orders statue’s return, installation in Sivakasi
Madras High Court ruling, Sivakasi statue case: The Madras HC ordered release of a freedom fighter’s statue in Sivakasi and allowed its installation in the local community hall saying the tehsildar had ‘no right in law’ to take it away.
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Madras High Court allowed installation of freedom fighter’s statute in the Sivakasi community hall.
Madras High Court ruling: Madras High Court allowed installation of freedom fighter’s statute in the Sivakasi community hall.
Madras High Court ruling: Coming down heavily on the local authority in Sivakasi, the Madras High Court has allowed the installation of a freedom fighter’s statue at a local community hall after ordering its release from the tehsildar’s custody.

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Justice G R Swaminathan pointed out that while a statue may have “symbolic value”, it is also “property in the legal meaning of the term”.

“The Tahsildar, Sivakasi has no right whatsoever in law to take away the statue which belongs to the writ petitioner and his community. A statue may have symbolic value but nevertheless it is also property in the legal meaning of the term,” the order read.