Thiruparankundram Tension: Tamil Nadu Govt Defies HC Order, Karthigai Deepam Lit at Traditional Spot

Chennai/Madurai: A tense confrontation unfolded on Wednesday at Thiruparankundram hill after temple authorities lit the Karthigai Deepam at the traditional Uchipillaiyar mandapam, directly defying a Madras High Court directive to light it at the ancient Deepathoon pillar.

Despite Justice GR Swaminathan’s order requiring the lamp to be lit at the contested pillar by 6 PM, officials proceeded with the usual practice, sparking a major dispute. The state government objected to the court’s directive and announced that it would challenge the order, citing law-and-order concerns.

Police–Activist Clash

The situation escalated when petitioner Rama Ravikumar, accompanied by CISF personnel as per the court’s instruction, attempted to climb the hill. They were stopped by the police after the district collector imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), citing public safety.

Members of Hindu Munnani and other groups protested outside the temple, demanding compliance with the court order. A scuffle broke out when some activists attempted to breach police barricades, resulting in injuries to a policeman.

Court Moves Toward Contempt

Following non-compliance with the order, Justice Swaminathan accepted a plea for contempt proceedings and summoned the temple executive officer and the Madurai police commissioner to appear before the court.

Historical and Religious Sensitivity

Thiruparankundram hill is a historically sensitive site shared by the Subramaniya Swamy temple, Kasi Viswanathan temple, and the Sikkander Badusha dargah. The region has seen heightened tensions in recent years, including protests earlier this year over allegations of meat consumption on the hill.

The BJP has described the site as the “Ayodhya of the South,” signaling political interest in the ongoing disputes. Ownership of the hill remains contested, with the temple referencing a 1920 judgment supporting its claim, while the dargah holds recognized rights over its structures.