CHENNAI: Chief Minister MK Stalin announced on Tuesday that the State government will simplify planning permission for religious buildings by removing the requirement for District Collectors' No Objection Certificates (NOCs).

The announcement was made during a Christmas celebration in Kolathur. CM Stalin highlighted the festival's message of joy, love, and brotherhood, stating that this spirit of equality should permeate all sections of society.
The Chief Minister reiterated his administration's commitment to minority welfare, pledging to continue existing schemes and introduce new ones. He encouraged community leaders to ensure every household is informed about these benefits.

On the political front, Stalin referenced the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, affirming that the ruling DMK and its Secular Progressive Alliance partners are committed to protecting the voting rights of minority communities.

The new easing of planning permission norms will apply retroactively to all applications submitted between 2019 and 2024 that are currently under review.

Minister PK Sekarbabu, Chennai Mayor R Priya, and various religious community leaders attended the event.