Madras High Court Slams Officials For Failing To Stop Caste Discrimination At Karur Temple
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has pulled up district authorities for failing to ensure Scheduled Caste devotees' right to worship at the Chinnatharapuram Mariamman Temple in Karur district.
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- From: India News Bull
Chennai:
The Madras High Court's Madurai Bench has severely criticized district officials for their failure to protect the worship rights of Scheduled Caste devotees at the Chinnatharapuram Mariamman Temple in Karur district.
During a hearing on petitions requesting police protection for worship and challenging the temple's closure, Justice Pugalendhi stated that requiring a court order in 2025 to allow Scheduled Castes entry was "not a matter of pride but a matter of shame." The judge highlighted how achievements secured by social reformers through moral courage in 1939 now require judicial intervention to be enforced.
The court referenced significant historical movements including the Vaikom Satyagraha (1924-25), Guruvayur Satyagraha (1931-32), and the 1936 Travancore Temple Entry Proclamation, which led to important temple access rights in Madurai by 1939. Justice Pugalendhi expressed disappointment that despite constitutional guarantees, caste discrimination continues to deny devotees their fundamental rights.
In a strong rebuke of local authorities, the court emphasized:
The District Collector and Superintendent of Police hold constitutional positions, not merely decorative roles.
Their inaction has effectively protected discrimination rather than protecting citizens' rights.
Officials' negligence has forced devotees to seek judicial intervention unnecessarily.
The judge pointed out that had authorities organized peace meetings, ensured inclusive worship with HR&CE officials' assistance, and provided necessary police protection, the temple would not have remained closed since 2018. The court characterized their failure to act as "cowardice."
Additionally, the court ordered expedited proceedings in the criminal case against 17 individuals, including temple administrators, who allegedly attempted to prevent Scheduled Caste devotees from entering despite court orders. "Only then will those who obstruct constitutional rights face severe legal consequences, and it will instill fear in anyone attempting to bar worship on caste grounds," stated the judge.
Following the court's interim directive, the Chinnatharapuram Mariamman Temple has reopened with Scheduled Caste devotees now permitted entry under police protection.