The Madras High Court has held that no person can be prevented from entering a temple or participating in a temple festival on the ground of caste. Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy made the observation while considering a petition concerning participation of the Milagu Kattan Adidravidar Community in the chariot festival of Arulmigu Muthu Mariamman Temple in Salem district.
Background of the Case
V. Sundaram approached the High Court seeking directions to the District Collector, Revenue Divisional Officer and Tahsildar to ensure equal participation of the Milagu Kattan Adidravidar Community in the temple's chariot festival scheduled for August 27, 2026.
The petition also sought directions against private respondents, alleging that members of the community were being prevented from participating in the festival.
During the hearing, the State informed the Court that a peace committee meeting had already been held and it had been agreed that everyone, without reference to caste or creed, would be permitted to participate in the festival. The State therefore submitted that the immediate prayer had become unnecessary as the festival was already underway.
Court's Observation
The Court referred to the Tamil Nadu Temple Entry Authorisation Act, 1947, and said that its position on caste-based restrictions on temple entry was clear.
Justice Bharatha Chakravarthy observed:
“With reference to temple entry and participation in the festival, the Tamil Nadu Temple Entry Authorisation Act, 1947 itself is very clear that nobody can be restrained on the basis of the caste.”
The Court further stated that if a person, particularly a member of a Scheduled Caste, is prevented from entering a temple on caste grounds, such conduct would amount to the practice of untouchability and violate the fundamental right guaranteed under Article 17 of the Constitution. It added that a person responsible for such an act would be liable for prosecution in accordance with law.
The Court recorded the State's submission that there would be no caste-based discrimination in participation in future festivals as well.
However, disputes concerning rights to conduct the festival or matters of temple administration were kept open. The Court said the petitioner or any devotee could approach the appropriate authority under Section 63 of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments law, or the appropriate Civil Court, for such relief.
Decision
As participation in the 2026 festival had been ensured and the festival was already taking place, the Madras High Court closed the writ petition.
The connected miscellaneous petition was also closed, with no order as to costs.
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