Madurai, Tamil Nadu: The Karthigai Deepam festival has sparked fresh controversy in Tamil Nadu as the state government refused to comply with a Madras High Court order allowing the lighting of lamps at the peak of Tirupparankundram Hills. Despite the court’s directives, the police did not grant permission to devotees, escalating tensions.
Court Orders Ignored
The Madras High Court’s division bench rejected the state government’s appeal challenging the contempt order. The court had upheld Justice G.R. Swaminathan’s previous orders permitting the lighting of Karthigai Deepam under CISF security at the hilltop Deepthoon, instead of the Uchi Pillaiyar Temple where it was lit previously. The contempt proceedings had been initiated after the lamp was lit at the wrong location.
Despite the court’s explicit orders, police blocked the petitioner and 10 others from reaching the hill on Wednesday, citing law-and-order concerns after clashes between BJP and Hindu Munnani activists and police.
Police Action and Detentions
On Thursday, after the court dismissed the state’s appeal, the contempt proceedings were resumed, and the court reinstated permission for lighting the Deepam at the hilltop under police protection, warning of strict consequences for any violation.
However, police again prevented devotees from approaching the site, citing risks to public order. Hundreds of BJP and Hindu group activists protested against the state government at the foothills, while more than 1,000 police personnel were deployed. During the confrontation, BJP state president Nainar Nagendran clashed with police, and 50 BJP activists were taken into custody to prevent them from proceeding to the hill.
Tensions Remain High
The dispute over observing Karthigai Deepam as per court directives has intensified political and religious tensions in Madurai, highlighting the ongoing conflict between the judiciary and state authorities in upholding festival traditions.
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