The Madras High Court barred the use of a residential property in Chromepet for Nama Sankeerthanam (devotional chanting of Hindu God’s names), unless explicit permission is obtained from the Chengalpattu Collector to use the premises as a prayer hall.
Justice N. Anand Venkatesh issued the order while hearing a writ petition filed by Prakash Ramachandran, a resident of Krishnamachari Street at Radha Nagar in Chromepet, Chengalpattu district. The petitioner alleged that his neighbour, T.S. Subramanian, had allowed the Global Organisation for Divinity (GOD) to conduct regular Nama Sankeerthanam sessions at a residential property, causing disturbance to other residents.
Responding to the petition, the private respondents argued that the chanting brought peace of mind and spiritual solace, and that they had obtained consent from other neighbours. They also invoked their rights under Article 25 of the Constitution, which guarantees the freedom of religion.
However, the court observed that the right to pray does not extend to causing public nuisance. Justice Venkatesh stated that religious practices should not disturb others and must be conducted in a manner that respects the peace of residential areas.
“The same will apply here too. Except the change in the name of God, all other things are the same. How can you have Nama Sankeerthanam without Collector’s nod?” the judge said, referencing a previous order in which he had restrained Christian congregational prayers in residential premises in Kanniyakumari district without prior Collector approval.
“Peace is the best prayer and silence is the greatest prayer. The day people realise this truth, they will not disturb others by indulging in loud and noisy ways of praying to God,” the judge said.
Though the respondents informed the court that they had already submitted a representation to the Chengalpattu Collector seeking permission, the judge ruled that no chanting sessions should be held at the residential premises until official approval is granted.
The court also directed the Inspector of Chitlapakkam police station to ensure strict enforcement of the order.
(With inputs from The Hindu)
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