News Tamil Nadu

“Don’t destroy temples”: SC, OBC organizations oppose DMK govt’s move to appoint non-Brahmin caste servitors in Srivilliputtur Andal Temple

August 20, 2021
The Commune

In a first resistance to the DMK government’s unwarranted interference in Hindu temple affairs, various Scheduled Caste and Other Backward Caste organizations of the Virudhunagar district have opposed the HR&CE department’s move to appoint temple servitors unrelated to the Srivilliputtur Andal Temple.

In a scathing press release, the organizations have said that the present temple archakas and servitors have been taking care of the temple for years smoothly as per established ancient traditions. It said that the notice issued by the department about appointment of temple servitors and cooks to the Srivilliputtur Andal Temple and to other temples in the surrounding regions has shocked their communities.

The statement said “If one wishes to be involve themselves in the internal affairs of the temple and render service, they should hail from that particular tradition and should be well aware of the guidelines of the temple.”

“In this light, the move to destroy the ancient established traditions of the temple has caused great pain to our community.”, the statement further added.

It also highlight that Virudhunagar is a caste sensitive region and that it not good for the department to act in a manner that will incite caste clashes.

“During this corona period, it is important to save people lives and not incite caste clashes.”, the statement came down heavy on the HR&CE department.

It demanded that the administration revoke the order and let the temple follow the ancient traditions in appointments.

The statement has been issued by Paraiyar Maha Sabha, Naadar Ilagnar Ezhuchi Mandram (Nadar Youth Awakening Forum, Saaliyar Ezhuchi Kazhagam (Saliyar Awakening Association), Vennikkaalaadi Ezhuchi Paasarai.

Click here to subscribe to The Commune on Telegram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.