Madras High Court Allows Live Telecast Of Ram Mandir Consecration In Private Temples And Halls, Big Blow For DMK Govt

The Madras High Court has ordered that no police permission is required for live telecast of Ram Mandir consecration at private temples and marriage halls.

Justice Anand Venkatesh ruled that no permission is needed from cops or the government for live telecast of Pran Pratishtha ceremony at private temples and halls.

In response to a Writ Petition filed under Article 226 of the Constitution of India, the Madras High Court has addressed the rejection of permission for the conduct of Rama Nama Bhajan and Annadhanam on 22 January 2024, at KKR Kalyana Mandapam, Pattabiram. The petition challenged the refusal order issued by the first respondent on 21 January 2024.

During the hearing, senior counsels Mr. G. Karthikeyan and Mr. S. Ravi represented the petitioner, while Mr. A. Damodaran, Additional Public Prosecutor, appeared for the respondents. The Court was informed that subsequent permission had been granted by the first respondent, and the proceedings dated 21 January 2024, were presented.

The Court sought clarity on the government’s stance regarding such events, considering the multitude of functions anticipated. The Additional Public Prosecutor outlined the government’s position:

  • Events in private enclosures like mandapams, private temples, or other private places do not require police permission. Organizers are encouraged to arrange live streaming of the Pran Prathishta at Ayodhya.
  • In cases where events might overflow into public spaces, organizers must inform the police in advance to facilitate necessary measures for crowd control and to avoid disturbances to public movement.
  • For events within temples under the HR & CE Department’s control, prior information to the concerned department official is necessary for permission, subject to reasonable conditions.
  • In sensitive areas, the police retain the discretion to impose restrictions to prevent unnecessary law and order issues.

The Court concluded that conducting functions, including Bhajans, Rama Nama recitations, and Annadhanams, is not inherently prohibited. It emphasized responsible and pious conduct to avoid law and order problems. The judgment, disposing of the writ petition with the provided directions, emphasized the need for accurate information and encouraged a peaceful celebration of auspicious occasions. The Court also clarified that Bhakti towards God should contribute to peace and happiness without disturbing societal equilibrium. The decision was reached without imposing any costs.

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