The political atmosphere in Tamil Nadu has intensified following a significant court order concerning a religious site. The Madras High Court has permitted the lighting of a traditional lamp, or 'deepathoon', atop the historic Thirupparankundram hill, delivering a sharp rebuke to the state's Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government in the process.
Court's Stern Rebuke to State Government
In its order, the high court bench did not mince words while addressing the stance of the DMK-led administration. The state government had argued in court that there was no concrete evidence to establish that the pillar in question was historically used as a 'deepathoon'. Dismissing this argument, the bench stated that the government should not "stoop to that level" merely to advance its "political agenda." This strong judicial observation has become the centerpiece of a major political controversy.
BJP Seizes the Moment, Launches Political Attack
Capitalizing on the court's remarks, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched a fierce offensive against the ruling DMK and its ally, the Indian National Congress. The national party accused both entities of being "anti-Hindu" in their approach. BJP leaders hailed the court's decision as a victory for Hindu faith and tradition, while simultaneously condemning the state government for its attempted obstruction. The party framed the government's legal stance as a deliberate attempt to undermine Hindu religious practices for political gains.
The Core of the Dispute: History and Faith
The entire case revolved around the religious and historical significance of the site on Thirupparankundram hill. Devotees and petitioners maintained that the structure was a traditional lamp pillar, central to local worship. The DMK government's skepticism and demand for evidence were interpreted by many, including the judiciary and the opposition, as an unnecessary hurdle placed before religious expression. The court's final ruling, dated 06 January 2026, has now settled the legal matter, but the political ramifications are still unfolding.
The incident has sparked a fresh debate on the intersection of politics, history, and religion in Tamil Nadu. With the BJP strongly championing the cause and the DMK facing judicial criticism, this issue is likely to fuel further political discourse in the state. The court's order has not just allowed a lamp to be lit on a hill but has also ignited a significant political firestorm.
