Revolutionary songs in temples: High Court notice to government and Devaswom boards

KOCHI: The High Court has issued a notice to the government and Devaswom boards, stating that the law prohibiting the use of temple premises for the campaigning of political parties should be strictly implemented. The action is based on a petition filed by Kochi native N Prakash seeking the application of the Prevention of Misuse of Religious Institutions Act to temples not under the control of Devaswom boards. The Devaswom bench, comprising Justice Anil K Narendran and Justice S Muralikrishna, has directed that a reply be filed within three weeks on the matter.

The petition pointed out that the play 'Ningalenne Communistaki' was performed on April 7 in connection with the festival at Sri Indilayappan Temple in Attingal, a singer named Aloshi sang revolutionary songs on the 11th, and slogans were raised praising SFI during a wedding held at the mandapam of the Tali Maha Shiva Kshetram in Kozhikode on April 27. The court orally stated that the interim order issued on April 3 regarding the singing of a revolutionary song at the Kadakkal temple in Kollam is applicable everywhere. It then sought an explanation from the opposing parties. "Temples and related institutions should not be allowed to be used for political purposes. Devaswom boards should take strict action against those who violate the law. The Devaswom Commissioner should issue a circular in this regard," the interim order said.