Madras High Court Slams Officials for Failing to Light Karthigai Deepam, Warns of Strict Action

Madurai:
The Madras High Court has issued a stern warning to officials over their failure to light the traditional Karthigai Deepam at the Tirupparankundram Hill’s lamp tower. The court stated that if the officials do not provide a valid explanation for their inaction, charges of contempt will be formally framed against them on February 2.

During the proceedings, several key officials were present, including Madurai District Collector J. Praveen Kumar, Police Commissioner J. Loganathan, the temple’s Executive Officer Yagna Narayanan, and Madurai South DCP A.G. Inigo Divyan.

Court Orders Accountability

Justice G.R. Swaminathan emphasized that the officials have yet to justify why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them. The court made it clear that failure to present a satisfactory explanation will result in formal charges being drawn up on the set date of February 2.

Disregard of Court Directive

The issue arose after the Madras High Court had explicitly directed that the Karthigai Deepam be lit at the Tirupparankundram Hill. Officials, however, did not comply with this order, prompting the filing of contempt petitions. At the hearing, both the Collector and DCP stated that the decision to not follow the directive was taken independently and informed the court that an appeal against the contempt proceedings is pending before a division bench.

The next hearing in this matter has been scheduled for February 6, where the court will review the progress and any further explanations from the officials.

This development underscores the judiciary’s firm stance on ensuring compliance with court orders, particularly those linked to cultural and religious traditions.