Corporation playground turns venue for birthday party

The incident came to light when residents went to the playground and found rows of chairs, a shamiana and a banner featuring political insignia there. 

On enquiry, they found out that the permission was granted by Assistant Engineer Dhandapani, who was allegedly paid Rs 2,000. 

R Siva, who planned to celebrate his child’s birthday in the ground, said he got the permission from Dhandapani but was not issued any receipt. 

Hearing this episode, David Manohar, an activist working with Arappor Iyakkam, posted it on social media and alerted the senior officials of the Corporation. 

The residents also filed a complaint regarding the appropriation of the public space for a private event.

Dhandapani, however, refuted the allegations saying that he did not rent out the playground.

“The Assistant Commissioner and other officials reached the ground and the party organisers were asked to wrap up the celebrations. They also had access to an illegal power connection. The organiser was asked to cut the cake and disperse,” said Manohar.