The Madurai Bench of the High Court has issued an interim ban on the consecration ceremony (Kumbabhishekam) of the Sri Ulagamman Udanurai Arulmigu Sri Kashi Vishwanathar Swamy Temple in Tenkasi. The decision comes in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by a petitioner alleging mismanagement and structural instability in the temple following renovation efforts.
The petitioner, Nambirajan from Tenkasi, contended that extensive excavation work had been carried out within the temple premises, leading to the removal of 100 tractor-loads of soil under the directive of the temple’s executive officer, Murugan. This, he claimed, had compromised the structural integrity of the temple. Additionally, he alleged that government funds allocated for the temple’s renovation had not been utilized properly, and that an inspection by the Tenkasi District Assistant Commissioner confirmed that the renovation work remained incomplete.
The High Court, in response, has halted the Kumbabhishekam until the temple’s restoration is fully completed. The case has been adjourned, with the court directing an inspection by a team from IIT Madras and the Customary Commission to assess the temple’s stability and submit a report.
Meanwhile, controversy has erupted on social media over a notice issued by the temple’s renovation committee detailing the proposed expenses for the Kumbabhishekam. The document lists an estimated total cost of ₹1.67 crore, with a Shivacharya’s salary reportedly starting at ₹45 lakhs, sparking public outcry and raising concerns about financial transparency.
The case will continue to be heard, with further developments awaited on the future of the temple’s consecration ceremony.
(With inputs from WebDunia)
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