The recent ruling by the Madras High Court has shed light on incidents involving non-Hindus entering temples without any religious intentions. The court has emphasized the significance of this issue, stating that such actions infringe upon the fundamental rights of Hindus.
As a result, the court has instructed the Hindu religious establishments and departments in Tamil Nadu to display boards in all temples, clearly stating that non-Hindus are prohibited from venturing beyond the ‘Kodimaram’ or flag pole area. Furthermore, Judge S. Shrimathi of the Madurai bench of the High Court emphasized that temples should not be treated as mere tourist attractions or picnic spots. Hence, non-Hindus are strictly prohibited from proceeding beyond the flag pole upon entering the temple premises.
The court’s ruling has underscored the essential entitlement of Hindus to freely exercise their religious beliefs without any hindrance. This verdict, which prohibits the access of non-Hindus to temples, was rendered in response to a petition submitted by D. Senthilkumar. Senthilkumar had specifically requested that only Hindus be allowed to enter the Arulmigu Palani Dhanadayuthapani Swamy temple and its subsidiary temples located in Palani, Dindigul district.
Non-Hindus are required to make a commitment in order to have darshan
During the proceedings of this case, the court has issued directives to place these signboards at the temple’s entrance gates, near the flagpole, and other significant locations. The ‘Kodimaram’ board will serve as a boundary beyond which non-Hindus are not allowed to enter. As per the court’s ruling, if a non-Hindu desires to seek blessings from a particular deity, they must provide a written declaration affirming their belief in Hinduism and their commitment to adhere to the temple’s rituals.
Will adhere to the beliefs and traditions of the Hindu faith and follow the customs associated with the worship of God
The court also emphasized that individuals who do not adhere to the Hindu faith should not be granted access to the temple grounds. In the event that a non-Hindu asserts to have witnessed a specific deity within the temple, they must provide a written declaration affirming their belief in the Hindu God. Additionally, they must commit to observing the rituals and traditions of the Hindu religion, as well as adhering to the customs of the temple. Only upon meeting these requirements can non-Hindus be permitted entry into the temple.