Madras HC Dismisses Plea for New Expert Committee on Tiruchendur Temple Renovation

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Wednesday dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that sought the formation of a new expert committee to oversee the renovation and repair works at the historic Subramaniya Swamy Temple in Tiruchendur.

The division bench comprising Justice S.M. Subramaniam and Justice A.D. Maria Clete held that the Tamil Nadu government has already constituted a committee, based on earlier court directions issued on April 24, to handle the temple’s repair activities.

Court: Existing Committee is Sufficient

The judges clarified that no further direction is necessary, as the existing committee already fulfills the role outlined in the petition. They advised the petitioner to seek remedy through appropriate channels under the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR & CE) Act, should he believe that customary temple practices are being violated.

The PIL and Its Claims

The PIL was filed by Ramkumar Adityan, an advocate from Thoothukudi. In his petition, he raised concerns about:

• Construction of an additional amenities building within a Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) without obtaining environmental clearance.

• Potential traffic congestion due to the planned parking facility, which may affect Kamarajar Salai and all surrounding car streets (North, South, East, and West).

He further demanded that the court direct the state to form a specialist committee composed of members well-versed in Thantra Samuchiyam, Kerala Sambrathaya Agamam, and Kumara Thantram Agamam, to inspect and validate the ongoing temple renovation works.

Legal Stand: Proper Procedures Already in Place

The court emphasized that the existing committee was formed in line with judicial directions and any further intervention would be redundant.

"If the petitioner believes there is a violation of traditional or religious customs, the competent authority under the HR & CE Act is the appropriate forum," the bench stated.

Conclusion: Temple Repairs Will Proceed Under Existing Supervision

The ruling upholds the Tamil Nadu government’s approach to temple renovation, and affirms that legal and procedural checks are already in place. While the petitioner’s environmental and religious concerns were noted, the court reiterated that grievances should be addressed through statutory mechanisms, not through redundant court orders.

This decision clears the path for ongoing renovation efforts at the Tiruchendur Subramaniya Swamy Temple, one of the most revered religious sites in Tamil Nadu, to continue under existing regulatory supervision.