Authorities Face Contempt Charges for Failing to Implement Judicial Orders on Karthigai Deepam Lighting at Thirupparankundram Hill
In a significant legal development, the Madras High Court has taken stringent steps by initiating contempt of court proceedings against certain state officials and temple authorities for their non-compliance with a judicial order. The order in question directed the lighting of the Karthigai Deepam atop the Thirupparankundram hill at a location known as the Deepathoon. The Court, presided over by Mr. G.R. Swaminathan, J., expressed its dissatisfaction with the failure of the temple authorities to adhere to the court's directive and highlighted the obstruction caused by police officials.
The contempt proceedings were brought against Shri. K.J. Praveenkumar IAS, District Collector of Madurai, and other officials, including the Commissioner of Police and the Executive Officer of the Arulmigu Subramania Swamy Temple. Despite having sufficient time to respond, the contemnors had not shown cause for their failure to comply with the court's order, which was initially issued on December 1, 2025.
The Court had explicitly quashed a prohibitory order made under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, by the District Collector, which was intended to prevent the lighting ceremony. However, the Deputy Commissioner of Police continued to obstruct the implementation of the court's order. The Court has now scheduled further action to determine the charges against the contemnors on February 2, 2026.
In a related matter, the Court upheld the decision of a Division Bench declaring the Deepathoon area as belonging to the temple. This decision followed an incident where Dargha officials tied a flag in the Deepathoon area without permission, which was deemed a criminal trespass. The Executive Officer of the temple has been directed to lodge a formal complaint and initiate appropriate criminal prosecution against the Dargha officials involved.
The case highlights the ongoing legal tussle and the enforcement of judicial orders concerning religious and property rights. The Court has emphasized the importance of adhering to judicial directions and maintaining the sanctity of court orders, setting a date for further proceedings.
Bottom Line:
Contempt of court proceedings initiated for non-compliance of court order directing the lighting of the Karthigai Deepam atop the Thirupparankundram hill at the Deepathoon; failure of temple authorities and obstruction by police officials highlighted.
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, Section 163
Rama. Ravikumar v. K.J.Praveenkumar IAS, (Madras)(Madurai Bench) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2835947
