Chennai, August 8: Earlier in the day, the Madras High Court dismissed petitions filed by Traffic Ramaswamy, K Balu & Duraisamy challenging the construction of memorials at Marina beach, according to an ANI update. Former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M. Karunanidhi died at the age of 94 after battling age-related ailments at Kauvery Hospital. According to ANI, VCK chief Thol Thirumavalavan said, "We demand that Bharat Ratna is conferred upon him. We also demand that his memorial is made near Anna Samadhi." Karunanidhi Death: Madras HC Dismisses Petitions Challenging the Construction of Memorials at Marina Beach

Tamil Nadu government states in its counter affidavit that DMK chief Karunanidhi himself didn't allot land for former CM Janaki Ramachandran after understanding the protocol manual when Karunanidhi was the CM. Earlier, family members of Karunanidhi and a DMK delegation led by M K Stalin met Chief Minister K Palaniswami had sought space near Annadurai's memorial for burying Karunanidhi's body.

On Tuesday, the Madras High Court adjourned the hearing on a petition seeking permission to bury M Karunanidhi near Amma Memorial at Marina Beach. Earlier, Congress president Rahul Gandhi and superstar Rajinikanth urged the state government to provide land at Marina Beach for Karunanidhi's burial. Today schools, colleges, and government offices are closed to pay respect to the veteran leader.

The government has said that the National flag will fly at half-mast today in Delhi and all state capitals as a mark of respect to - Karunanidhi, who passed away in Chennai. The DMK in its release on Tuesday said, "Karunanidhi's mortal remains to be taken to his Gopalapuram residence. Family members and relatives can pay their respects between 8.30 p.m and 1 a.m. Following this, Karunanidhi's mortal remains will be kept at his CIT Colony residence between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. At 4 am, his remains will be taken to Rajaji Hall where party cadre, the general public and political leaders can pay their respects".

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 08, 2018 09:45 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).