The Madurai bench of the High Court has granted permission to the Hindu Munnani organization to hold a protest in connection with the Thiruparankundram temple issue. The court ruled that the protest could take place from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Palanganatham near Madurai, subject to specific conditions.
The Hindu Munnani had originally sought permission to hold a protest at Thiruparankundram hill against alleged encroachments and the sacrifice of goats and chickens at the sacred site. However, authorities had denied permission, citing a prohibitory order under Section 144 due to tensions between two groups. The denial was also linked to the ongoing Vel Festival at the temple.
In response, Hindu Munnani filed an urgent petition in the High Court. A bench comprising Justices Jayachandran and Vandu Poornima heard the matter and ruled in favor of granting permission for the protest, while imposing certain restrictions to ensure public order.
The court emphasized the importance of freedom of speech and expression but stated that the protest should not disrupt religious harmony. It ruled that the protest should not take place at Thiruparankundram but at Palanganattham instead. Additionally, the following conditions were imposed:
- The protest must be peaceful and should not include slogans or speeches that insult any religion or individual.
- There should be no incitement to riots or communal tension.
- The protestors are allowed to use only one microphone and speaker.
- Necessary police security must be provided to maintain law and order.
This ruling follows the growing controversy over the Thiruparankundram hill issue, with Hindu Munnani alleging encroachment and religious violations at the sacred site. The court’s decision provides a legal framework for the protest while ensuring that tensions do not escalate.
(With inputs from The New Indian Express)
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