Notwithstanding a recommendation by a Group of Ministers to set up a National War Memorial at India Gate, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit has strongly opposed the proposal, saying its construction will take away the sheen of the "peoples' place" in the city.

Comparing the India Gate complex with Chowpatty in Mumbai and Marina beach in Chennai, Dikshit said setting up of the war memorial will severely affect the ambiance of the area and restrict movement of people.

"It is a peoples' place. It is just like Marina beach and Chaupati. My point is that you can make a memorial anywhere else. Why spoil this beautiful place? Why become a hindrance to the peoples enjoyment?" Dikshit said when asked about the issue.

In August, a GoM headed by Defence Minister A K Antony had recommended the establishment of the National War Memorial at the India Gate complex.