Court Commends Travancore Devaswom Board for Initiating Reforms to Enhance Transparency and Accountability
In a significant ruling, the Kerala High Court has directed the Travancore Devaswom Board to overhaul procurement practices at the renowned Sabarimala Temple, emphasizing the need for transparency, accountability, and integrity. The bench, comprising Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan V and K.V. Jayakumar, issued the directive following a suo motu case highlighting irregularities in the procurement of materials for religious rituals at the temple.
The case originated from a report by the Special Commissioner, Sabarimala, pointing to misappropriation in the purchase of pooja materials. The court scrutinized audit reports, which revealed a lack of transparency and accounting in material procurement, particularly those received via sponsorship. In response, the Travancore Devaswom Board has resolved to centralize procurement through a Central Store, thereby discontinuing the previous practice of procurement by administrative officers, which was deemed inappropriate and prone to conflicts of interest.
The judgment mandates that items such as milk, tender coconuts, and flowers for temple rituals be procured exclusively through the Central Store. It also emphasizes digitization of inventory management and mandates quality checks by the Food Safety Department. The court lauded the board's decision to abolish the existing procurement practice, describing it as a "grossly unholy practice in a holy place."
The ruling further directs the board to review procurement practices across other temples under its administration to prevent similar issues. The court has insisted on the faithful implementation of the reforms outlined in the board's July 13, 2026 order.
The decision marks a pivotal step towards enhancing governance in religious institutions, ensuring that sacred practices are conducted with the utmost integrity and accountability.
Bottom line:-
Transparency and accountability in procurement practices within religious institutions are essential to uphold institutional integrity and prevent conflicts of interest.
Statutory provision(s): Travancore-Cochin Hindu Religious Institutions Act, 1950, Sections 25, 26, 31, 32, and 35
Suo Motu v. State of Kerala, (Kerala)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2948842
