“Removing Temple Was Not Appropriate”: MP High Court Bar Association Challenges Hanuman Temple Removal At Chief Justice’s Residence

The Madhya Pradesh High Court Bar Association has raised objections to the removal of a Hanuman Temple situated on the premises of Chief Justice Suresh Kumar Kait’s official residence. The association has appealed to Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna for an investigation and appropriate action regarding the matter.

According to the letter submitted to the CJI, the temple, located within the Chief Justice’s bungalow, holds historical significance. Several former Chief Justices, including Justices SA Bobde, AM Khanwilkar, and Hemant Gupta—who were later elevated to the Supreme Court—are said to have worshipped there. Employees at the residence also reportedly performed regular puja at the temple.

Even Muslim Chief Justices who previously occupied the bungalow, such as Justices Rafat Alam and Rafiq Ahmed, did not raise objections to the temple’s presence. The association noted that the bungalow and the temple are government properties, and the temple’s reconstruction over the years has been funded by the government. The bar body emphasized that the temple facilitated convenient worship for those practicing Sanatan Dharma, making life peaceful and harmonious for its residents.

Objections To Demolition

The association argued that the temple could not have been removed without proper governmental approval or a statutory order. It described the removal as disrespectful to followers of Sanatan Dharma.

The controversy intensified after a lawyer, Advocate Ravindra Nath Tripathi, submitted a complaint to the President, Prime Minister, CJI, and Union Law Minister, accusing Chief Justice Kait of demolishing the temple, which had existed for a long time. The complaint highlighted that the bungalow is not personal property and such actions were inappropriate.

Related Developments

The incident has reportedly inspired another lawyer to file a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking the removal of all temples from police stations across the state. Concerns have been raised that Justice Kait might support such actions. Advocate Tripathi has requested a formal inquiry, criminal proceedings, and the transfer of the Chief Justice. He has also urged Justice Kait to recuse himself from hearing the PIL regarding temple removals.

Statements From Bar Association President

Dhanya Kumar Jain, President of the Madhya Pradesh High Court Bar Association, confirmed that the temple was removed during Justice Kait’s tenure, although earlier Chief Justices had allowed its existence. Jain speculated that Justice Kait’s Buddhist beliefs might have influenced his decision.

“This is an official residence. Such matters should be investigated. While we respect the judge’s adherence to Buddhism, removing a temple is not appropriate if this indeed occurred,” Jain remarked.

The incident has sparked significant debate, with many demanding accountability and calling for respect towards religious sentiments.