Controversy Ignites Over Karthigai Deepam Lamp Lighting on Thirupparankundram Hill

The Madras High Court is hearing a case regarding the lighting of a lamp on Thirupparankundram hill during Karthigai Deepam, amid concerns of public disorder. Allegations suggest that these concerns are an attempt to suppress Tamil culture. The division bench is reviewing appeals against a previous court decision allowing the practice.

In a contentious case being deliberated by the Madras High Court, concerns have emerged about potential public disorder during the lighting of a lamp on Thirupparankundram hill for the Karthigai Deepam festival. Senior advocate S. Sriram argues that the caution expressed is baseless and possibly aimed at hindering Tamil cultural practices.

The legal proceedings involve a division bench reviewing a series of appeals against an earlier decision by Justice G. R. Swaminathan, which permitted the lighting ceremony. While the appellants are open to negotiations, the devotees, represented by Sriram, are standing firm on their right to religious practice.

The case has drawn attention to broader issues involving the Waqf Board and the Archaeological Survey of India Act, as both are pivotal in the debate over religious rights and public order. The argument centers around whether the lighting on what might be a historically significant stone pillar conflicts with public safety concerns.

(With inputs from agencies.)