Kerala High Court Intervenes to Address Cleanliness Issues in Chottanikkara Temple

Court Orders Presence of Key Authorities to Ensure Effective Remedial Measures

In a significant move to address public health and sanitation concerns, the Kerala High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of severe lapses in cleanliness and maintenance within the premises of the renowned Chottanikkara Temple. The Division Bench comprising Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan V and K. V. Jayakumar has directed the presence of several key officials to ensure effective enforcement of remedial measures.

The court's intervention was prompted by disturbing revelations of widespread filth and decay within the temple premises, as depicted in photographs submitted alongside the petition. The images highlight the deplorable state of hygiene and sanitation, particularly in the kitchen and adjoining areas, raising serious concerns about the quality of offerings made to the deity and the misconduct of temple staff.

The vigilance wing, tasked with oversight responsibilities, has been notably ineffective, leading to this judicial intervention. The court, in its previous order dated August 20, 2025, had already expressed dissatisfaction with the prevailing conditions, which were corroborated by a communication from the District Co-ordinator, Navakeralam Karma Padhathi. The communication, dated March 11, 2025, outlined several defects discovered during inspection and recommended measures such as the installation of a proper waste segregation system, a water-treatment plant, and an incinerator compliant with Pollution Control Board specifications.

Despite these recommendations, many directives remain unimplemented, prompting the court to summon the Executive Director of the Suchitwa Mission, the Executive Engineer of the Maramath Wing of the Cochin Devaswom Board, and the Assistant Engineer of the Chottanikkara Devaswom for effective adjudication. The court has implored these officials to be present personally on September 24, 2025, to provide a detailed account of the steps taken to remedy the situation.

This judicial intervention underscores the importance of maintaining sacred spaces with the utmost cleanliness and reverence, and the court's proactive approach aims to restore the sanctity of the Chottanikkara Temple.

Bottom Line:

Lapses in cleanliness and maintenance within temple premises - The Court suo motu took cognizance of the situation and directed the presence of responsible authorities to ensure remedial measures are implemented effectively. 

Statutory provision(s): Public Interest Litigation

Suo Motu v. State of Kerala, (Kerala)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2782276