New Delhi: The Madurai High Court has upheld an earlier order allowing the ceremonial lighting of the Karthigai Deepam at the stone pillar located on the hilltop of Thiruparankundram in Tamil Nadu, effectively settling a long and sensitive dispute surrounding the issue. A division bench ruled that the controversy had been unnecessarily politicised and stressed the need for restraint and dialogue.
The court observed that the district administration could have used the situation as an opportunity to foster understanding between communities through mediation rather than allowing tensions to escalate. It also underlined that Thiruparankundram hill is a protected heritage site, meaning any activity carried out there must strictly adhere to the relevant conservation laws.
While permitting the lighting of the lamp, the court clarified that public access to the ceremony would be restricted. It further stated that the event must be conducted in consultation with the Archaeological Survey of India, ensuring that heritage norms and safety considerations are fully respected.
The case originated from a petition seeking permission to light the Karthigai Deepam at the hilltop pillar, which petitioners and temple authorities have maintained is the traditional location for the ritual. They argued that the lamp has been lit at the same spot for more than a century, in line with long standing customs and Agama practices.
Authorities opposing the move had contended that there was no conclusive evidence to establish the existence of a lamp pillar at the site. They also raised concerns over possible law and order issues, citing the presence of a dargah on the hill and the sensitivities associated with it.
The dispute took a tragic turn when protests intensified and a 40 year old man died by self immolation, reportedly distressed by the ongoing controversy. The incident further heightened public attention on the issue.
Following the verdict, the Bharatiya Janata Party welcomed the decision, describing it as a significant victory for Hindu religious practices in the state. Party leaders criticised the ruling dispensation, calling the judgment an embarrassment for those who had opposed the lighting of the lamp.
