The Supreme Court of India on April 1 dismissed a petition filed by Tushar Gandhi, the great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, challenging the Gujarat government’s decision to redevelop the historic Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. The project, estimated at ₹1,200 crore, aims to modernize and preserve the ashram while making it more accessible to visitors.

A bench comprising Justice MM Sundresh and Justice Rajesh Bindal dismissed the Special Leave Petition filed by Tushar Gandhi, citing an inordinate delay of nearly 2.5 years in challenging the Gujarat High Court’s September 2022 decision. The High Court had previously ruled in favor of the redevelopment, rejecting Gandhi’s concerns.

Read Also:- Supreme Court Clarifies: High Court Can Quash FIR at Nascent Stage Under S.482 CrPC/S.528 BNSS

Tushar Gandhi opposed the project, arguing that it would compromise the integrity of the ashram and its Gandhian legacy. He stated:

"The proposed project will alter the topography of the century-old ashram to the tune of ₹1,200 crore and corrupt its ethos. The project has purportedly identified over 40 congruent buildings which will be preserved while the rest of them, roughly 200, will be destroyed or rebuilt."

He contended that the redevelopment could erode the original structure’s sanctity and distort the historical significance of the site where Mahatma Gandhi once lived and worked.

Read Also:- Police Dog Cannot Testify In Court, Handlers' Evidence Requires Corroboration: Orissa High Court

Gujarat High Court’s Stand on Redevelopment

The Gujarat High Court had previously ruled in favor of the state government, taking note of the assurances given by the authorities that the existing ashram would not be disturbed, altered, or changed. The court emphasized that the project would enhance and promote Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy and legacy.

The court stated:

"The revamped Gandhi Ashram will be a place for learning for mankind of all age groups and will be beneficial for humanity at large."

The redevelopment aims to maintain the core values of Gandhian philosophy while improving facilities for visitors, researchers, and historians. The government has assured that all historically significant buildings will be preserved, and the new additions will serve to enhance the experience of learning about Mahatma Gandhi’s life and teachings.

Case : TUSHAR ARUN GANDHI VS. STATE OF GUJARAT | DIARY NO. - 12965/2025