The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court is set to announce its decision on Tuesday regarding the lighting of the Karthigai Deepam at Thiruparankundram in Madurai. The case originated from a petition by Hindu Tamil Party leader Rama Ravikumar, requesting the lighting of the ceremonial lamp at the hilltop pillar. Despite a previous order in favor of lighting the lamp, concerns over law and order prevented its implementation.
An appeal challenging the initial order was made by the Executive Officer of the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple, the Madurai District Collector, and the Madurai City Police Commissioner before a Division Bench. The judges heard arguments from various parties, including the Sikandar Dargah, the Wakf Board, and the temple administration, and have reserved their verdict following a week of detailed proceedings.
Another legal issue emerged concerning practices at the dargah on Thiruparankundram Hill, involving allegations of animal sacrifice and non-vegetarian food during rituals. An interim order was issued restraining these practices, with the dargah administration seeking a stay on the directive. However, the Division Bench declined to address the appeal immediately, advising all parties to await the outcome of the lamp-lighting case verdict on January 6.
The current restrictions on animal sacrifice and non-vegetarian food during the festival period are still in effect. The judgment expected to be delivered could have significant implications on religious practices and administrative procedures at Thiruparankundram Hill, a place of great spiritual importance to various communities.
