Kerala High Court Mandates Revamp of Darshan Management at Guruvayoor Temple

Court Directs Scientific Study and Technological Integration for Efficient Crowd Management and Devotee Welfare

In a landmark decision, the Kerala High Court has issued a series of directives aimed at overhauling the crowd management system at the revered Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple. The judgment comes in response to multiple writ petitions highlighting the challenges faced by devotees, especially the elderly and differently-abled, in accessing the temple for darshan.

The bench, comprising Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan V and K.V. Jayakumar, emphasized the temple's duty to ensure a dignified and hassle-free experience for devotees. The court noted that the current long-standing queue system poses significant difficulties, leading to physical strain and discomfort for pilgrims who often wait for hours.

In its comprehensive judgment, the court outlined several measures aimed at modernizing the management of pilgrim flow. Key among these is the directive to conduct a scientific study to determine the temple's carrying capacity, thereby setting a daily cap on the number of devotees. The court also recommended the development of a mobile application and digital display systems to provide real-time updates on queue status, thereby enhancing transparency and convenience.

The judgment also calls for the classification of devotees into groups, with designated entry and exit points to streamline movement. Priority darshan for special categories, such as senior citizens and differently-abled individuals, is to be ensured, with at least two days a week reserved exclusively for online bookings.

Addressing the need for improved infrastructure, the court directed the Guruvayoor Devaswom Managing Committee to enhance basic amenities, including drinking water, seating arrangements, and air-cooled waiting halls. The court further urged the committee to explore the possibility of extending darshan hours in consultation with the temple's Thantri.

Recognizing the unique challenges posed by the temple's religious customs, the court clarified that technology should complement rather than compromise traditional practices. The judgment also highlighted the importance of inter-departmental coordination in managing the civic challenges arising from the influx of pilgrims.

The directives are expected to significantly improve the overall experience for devotees, ensuring that their spiritual journey is one of peace and fulfillment. The Guruvayoor Devaswom Managing Committee has been tasked with preparing a comprehensive action plan within two months, in consultation with various stakeholders.

The court's decision underscores the sacred duty to protect the welfare of devotees, aligning with the teachings of revered Hindu scriptures that emphasize compassion and care for those who worship with devotion.

Bottom Line:

Management of Hindu temple - Duty of temple authorities to ensure efficient crowd management and dignified darshan for devotees at Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple.

Statutory provision(s): Guruvayoor Devaswom Act, 1978, Sections 3, 4, 10, 35

P. N. Radhakrishnan v. State of Kerala, (Kerala)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2812032