Kadakkal temple issue: Temples should not be used for politics, says High Court

KOCHI: The High Court has stated that temples and institutions under the Travancore Devaswom Board must not be used for political purposes. It emphasised adherence to the 1988 Act, which prohibits the misuse of religious institutions. If the law is violated, action should also be taken against the office bearers of the Temple Advisory Committee. The Division Bench, comprising Justice Anil K. Narendran and Justice S. Muralikrishna, also instructed the Devaswom Commissioner to issue a general circular.

This statement came in response to a petition regarding the singing of a revolutionary song during the festival at the Kadakkal Devi Temple in Kollam. The court reviewed a report by the Devaswom Chief Vigilance and Security Officer about the incident. The report mentioned that the Marxist Party's symbol and the DYFI logo were displayed on the LED wall on the stage. The court questioned whether those dancing in front of the stage with bottles on their heads could be considered believers. It also noted that the police should have registered a case regarding this matter.

The petition, filed by Advocate Vishnu Sunil Pandalam, alleged violations of tradition and other issues during a music performance by Aloshi on March 10th as part of the Kadakkal festival. Temple Advisory Committee President S. Vikas requested more time to submit a counter-affidavit. The government also sought additional time for the Kadakkal SHO to provide an explanation. The petition will be reviewed again on the 10th.

How was the application of a person with 19 cases accepted?

The High Court also received a report stating that Kadakkal Temple Advisory Committee President Vikas had 19 criminal cases against him. The Division Bench questioned the Devaswom Board on how such a person's application was approved. Vikas' lawyer clarified that only four political cases were pending, while the others had been resolved.