Chennai: Renovation work has reportedly begun again in the room allotted to Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Minister Ramesh at the Tamil Nadu Secretariat, creating a stir within the Fort complex.
The room, located in the heritage building at Fort St. George, was earlier refurbished in 2024 during the DMK government. According to the report, the Public Works Department (PWD) had then upgraded the space with new lighting, furniture and air-conditioning at a cost of about Rs 1 crore.
Now, PWD teams have started another round of work, with existing fittings such as lights, plywood panels, a false ceiling, electrical items and air-conditioning units being removed from the room.
The report says astrologers linked recent controversies involving the minister—particularly the Palani temple land issue—to “incorrect” Vastu arrangements in the room, and advised changes including the placement of the table and chairs based on direction.
However, officials are expected to call for maintenance tenders through the PWD before taking up such works. The renovation being carried out allegedly without following these procedures has led to murmurs and criticism at the Secretariat, the report added.
