Authority: High Court of Judicature at Madras
Order Date: 03-09-2026
Case Overview
- Petitioners: P.D. Mohanraj, Secretary of Arulmigu Krishnaswamy Thirukovil Vazhipaatu Mandram, filed WP No. 35952 of 2026 and WMP No. 40180 of 2026 under Article 226 seeking a writ of mandamus.
- Respondents: Executive Officer Arul Migu Krishnaswamy Thirukovil (in‑charge), Commissioner, Joint Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, and Assistant Commissioner of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department.
- The petitioner alleged that the Executive Officer had excluded the Mandram members from temple activities despite their willingness to assist in maintenance, upkeep, and development of Arulmigu Sri Krishnasamy Thirukoil, Pannimadai, Coimbatore.
- Representations were submitted on 31‑07‑2026 and 16‑08‑2026 requesting consideration of their role and contributions.
- The immediate concern was the upcoming Sri Krishna Jayanthi festival scheduled for 04‑09‑2026, for which the petitioner sought participation rights.
- The Government Advocate for HR&CE contended that the Mandram was illegally collecting money from the public and that the department had already arranged the festival using donor funds.
Final Outcome
- The Court observed that the festival arrangements were already in place and found no impediment to the Mandram’s participation.
- It directed that the petitioner and the Mandram members may attend the Sri Krishna Jayanthi festival, offer prayers, make any financial or material contributions, and distribute sweets or offerings to the public.
- Respondents were ordered to permit such participation and accept any contributions made by the petitioner.
- The writ petition was disposed of with no costs, and the connected miscellaneous petition was closed.
Topics: Temple Management, Religious Endowments, Judicial Relief