In a significant ruling that underscores religious harmony, the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has firmly upheld the right of the Tirupparankundram temple to light a traditional lamp on a hillock, while delivering sharp criticism of the Tamil Nadu government and the Waqf Board for their handling of the issue.
Court Upholds Tradition, Rejects State's Apprehensions
The bench comprising Justices G Jayachandran and KK Ramakrishnan affirmed a previous order by a single judge, Justice GR Swaminathan, which allowed the lighting of the lamp, known as 'Deepathoon', at the stone pillar atop the Thiruparakundram hills. This site is unique as it houses both the Arulmigu Subramania Swamy Temple and the Sikkandar Badhusha Dargah.
The court strongly rejected the state administration's argument that the act could disrupt law and order. The judges termed the state's fear as "ridiculous" and an "imaginary ghost" created for convenience. They observed it was hard to believe the "mighty state" feared a simple lamp lighting by the temple management on temple land could disturb peace, unless such disturbances were state-sponsored.
ASI to Set Conditions for the Ritual
While permitting the practice, the court emphasized that the hill is a protected monument. It directed that all activities must strictly comply with the relevant Act's provisions. The bench clarified that the lamp may be lit, but the number of persons permitted must be fixed in consultation with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the police.
"The Devasthanam must light the lamp at the Deepathoon... ASI shall impose conditions necessary to protect the monuments on the hill," the court ordered. It specified that only the temple team would be allowed to perform the ritual during the Karthigai Deepam festival, with no public accompaniment. The District Collector was tasked with coordinating and supervising the event.
Court Criticises Waqf Board's 'Mischievous' Claim
The High Court also took a dim view of the Waqf Board's submission claiming ownership of the stone pillar for the dargah. The bench noted that religious practices have their reasons, and the custom of lighting a lamp (deepam) at an elevated place allows Hindu devotees at the foothill to see and worship it.
The judges pointed out that those challenging the practice failed to provide any formidable evidence showing it was not permitted by the Agama Shastras. The court held that when such a customary practice exists, there is no plausible reason for the temple management to deny devotees' request.
Ultimately, the court lamented that the district administration missed an opportunity to bridge community gaps through mediation. Instead, their actions, according to the bench, planted suspicion and constant mistrust between communities. The court concluded with a prayer "that no State should stoop to that level to achieve their political agenda."
