The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has sought clarification from the Tamil Nadu government regarding its decision on permitting the lighting of the Karthigai Deepam at the traditional deepam pillar located atop the Thirupparankundram hill.
The observation came during the hearing of appeals challenging orders passed in contempt proceedings related to the implementation of an earlier court direction permitting the lighting of the sacred lamp.
The case originates from a petition filed by Ramar Ravikumar of Madurai, who sought permission to light the Karthigai Deepam at the Deepathoon situated on the hilltop at Thirupparankundram. A single judge had earlier directed the authorities to allow the lighting of the lamp at the site.
Subsequently, contempt petitions were filed alleging that the authorities had failed to take adequate steps to implement the court’s order. Various directions were issued in those contempt proceedings, which were later challenged through appeals.
A division bench comprising Justices Satish Kumar and Jothiraman heard the appeals on Thursday, 4 June 2026. During the proceedings, the judges questioned the government’s position on the issue and asked why efforts could not be made to implement the court’s order.
The bench observed that the contempt proceedings could be dealt with separately and suggested that authorities should explore ways to comply with the original order. The judges remarked that India is a democratic country and emphasized that public sentiments should be respected.
Questioning the hurdles in implementing the order, the bench asked what difficulties prevented the authorities from allowing the lighting of the Karthigai Deepam at the designated location.
Representing the government, counsel submitted that consultations with senior officials were required before a final position could be communicated to the court.
Meanwhile, a plea filed by representatives of the dargah seeking to implead themselves in the proceedings was also brought to the court’s attention.
Appearing for the petitioner, advocate Arun Swaminathan expressed confidence that the present government would ultimately comply with the court’s directions.
After hearing the submissions, the bench directed the Tamil Nadu government to inform the court of its decision regarding the implementation of the order permitting the lighting of the Karthigai Deepam at Thirupparankundram hill.
The matter has been adjourned to 22 June 2026 for further hearing.
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