Devotees Allegedly Attacked By Temple Authorities And Guards In Palani’s Dandayuthapani Swami Temple, Protest Breaks Out

In yet another tragic incident at Palani’s Dandayuthapani Swami Temple in Dindigul District, devotees from Edappadi and Erode who visited Swamy temple for darshan were allegedly dragged and beaten by temple authorities and guards on duty.

According to a report by Hindustan Times, it is alleged that the temple administration had arranged a special route for Erode devotees to carry Kavadi. The altercation arose when Edappadi devotees, overtaking due to a long waiting period, attempted to enter the temple through a special route designated for Erode devotees carrying Kavadi.

It was alleged that Chandran, a devotee from Edappadi, was reportedly dragged, beaten, and suffered a fractured skull by the temple guards and authorities.

Both Chandran and his son who were injured in this incident were admitted to the Palani Hills Temple hospital and are undergoing treatment. In this situation over 500 Edappadi devotees protested, demanding action against the security guards involved.

The temple authorities assured suspension of those responsible, leading some protestors to disperse, while others remained adamant until the security guards faced consequences.

 

Earlier in January 2024, Palani Murugan Temple administration especially Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department faced criticism as worshippers were allegedly charged ₹1000 for mobile phone safekeeping, despite an initial notification stating a fee of ₹5. After completing the darshan, over 200 devotees confronted temple staff and engaged in a heated verbal exchange with temple staff over the high charges, resulting in a reduction to ₹500, with a warning that those unable to pay would be placed in the donation box.

 

In another incident during the same month on 5 January 2024, disappointment struck devotees preparing for Pongal and Thaipoosam celebrations at Palani’s Dandayuthapani Swami Temple, as the HR&CE Department allegedly denied permission to play drums during the festivities. This decision caused dismay among worshippers, especially during the sacred Thaipoosam festival, known for strict moral codes and fasting. Assistant Commissioner Lakshmi clarified that drumming is prohibited on the hilltop temple premises.

 

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