Petitioner to appeal against High Court order

COIMBATORE: Thomas G Rathinaraj, who filed a petition in the Madras high court against demolition of the 164-year-old St Michael's Church, said he would file an appeal against the court order.
Thomas G Rathinaraj, of Swaminar New Street in the city, is presently working in Rome. He had led the protest against the demolition of the church.
"I am yet to get details of the high court order.I will fight to the maximum and the last legal option would be sought to preserve the cathedral, which continue to remain integral to the catholic community's existence in the city,'' he told TOI over phone when contacted. He also indicated that he and his followers will go on appeal.
According to Rathinaraj, the cathedral has every right to be declared as a protected Ancient and Heritage Monument of Historical Importance, and preservation must be undertaken under the Ancient Monument and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, and the Madras Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1966.
"Any building that is more than 100 years old must be protected as ancient heritage monument of historical importance. The building is in good shape and can be strengthened and preserved. It was only recently, the old CSI church in the city was renovated, maintaining its original structure,'' said Rathinaraj, who also demands a study by Archeological Survey of India (ASI) pertaining to its historical significance.
Parish Priest P Maria Joseph said the building had no heritage value as projected. "The building is weak. Even a renovation is impractical as the structure is too weak. Roots of a tree have grown into the walls, making the structure unstable. So the diocese and the laity decided to demolish it," he said.
"It was soon after his consecration as first bishop of Coimbatore, Dr Marion Bresillac initiated construction of the cathedral and it was named after his native patron St. Michael. The construction of the Cathedral was successfully completed with the help of Rome-based Sacred Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith (Sacra Congregation de Propaganda Fide) for 50,000 franks. It was blessed by Rev Dr Depomier, the third bishop of Coimbatore on April 28, 1867,'' Coimbatore's historian C R Ilangovan said.
"More than 3000 people hope to attend holy mass here every week. But the old church can accommodate very few people. More over, the huge pillars inside are obstructing a clear view of the consecration,'' said Joseph.
He said the antique value of the present church would be preserved in the new one including the huge bell brought from France. "We have taken such a decision after consulting both devotees and the general public,'' he claimed.
However, Rathinaraj alleges there are hidden motives behind the demolition of the church. "Why can't they build a spacious new church at another location and preserve the present cathedral," he asked.