In a significant development, the Karnataka High Court has directed the state government to actively consider formulating a policy that would permit temples and religious institutions to cultivate sandalwood trees specifically for use in religious ceremonies and rituals.
The Core of the Petition
The court's suggestion came during the hearing of a petition filed by a Math (a monastic institution). The petitioner's case revolved around a historical agreement dating back to the year 1921. According to the submissions made in court, this agreement stipulated that 1087 kilograms of sandalwood were to be made available to the Math.
The petition further stated that the supply of sandalwood, as per this old accord, was consistently granted and received by the Math until the year 1976. The hearing brought this decades-old commitment and its subsequent discontinuation into sharp legal focus.
The Court's Directive and Its Implications
While adjudicating the matter, the High Court bench looked beyond the immediate dispute and proposed a broader, systemic solution. The judges advised the state to explore the creation of a dedicated sandalwood cultivation policy for religious purposes.
Such a policy, if implemented, could empower temples and maths to grow sandalwood on their own premises or designated lands. This would serve a dual purpose:
- Ensuring a legitimate and sustainable supply of sandalwood for essential religious rites and rituals.
- Potentially alleviating the burden on state-controlled sandalwood reserves and simplifying the process for religious institutions to acquire the material.
The court's observation underscores the unique requirements of religious entities regarding this precious and highly regulated aromatic wood, which is integral to many Hindu religious practices.
Looking Ahead: A Path for Sustainable Religious Practice
The High Court's recommendation, made on 29 December 2025, opens a new chapter in the discourse around sandalwood regulation in Karnataka. The state government is now expected to examine the feasibility of such a policy framework.
This move is seen as an attempt to balance the stringent regulations governing sandalwood—a protected species due to its high value and risk of smuggling—with the genuine and longstanding religious needs of institutions. A well-defined policy could provide clarity, prevent legal disputes, and ensure that ancient religious traditions have access to necessary resources through transparent and legal means.
The outcome of the state's consideration will be closely watched by religious institutions across Karnataka, potentially setting a precedent for other states dealing with similar issues.
