Lord Ripon statue in Chennai: a symbol of strength of local administration

A plaque at the pedestal of a statue in Ripon Buildings reads: The Most Honourable George Frederick Samvel Marqvess of Ripon K.G. (1827-1909).

The statue was removed in 2011 to facilitate Metro Rail construction. A few years ago, the Corporation hired sculptors to re-install the statue on the completion of the Metro Rail project, after residents expressed concern about the risk of damage to the statue.

Deputy Mayor M. Magesh Kumaar says the heritage structure reinforces the importance of local self-government. “Lord Ripon has been instrumental in strengthening local self-government in India. He is one of the British leaders respected by Indians because he respected the aspirations of the poor, marginalised people in our country.”