Court Directs District Collector to Ensure Equitable Involvement in Muthalapuram Village's Temple Celebrations
In a landmark judgment dated June 8, 2026, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court emphasized the precedence of constitutional morality over customary practices that perpetuate caste-based exclusion in public religious festivals. The court, presided by Justice L. Victoria Gowri, addressed a writ petition filed by Bakiyaraj, a member of the Devendra Kula Vellalar community, seeking inclusion in the annual temple festival of Arulmighu Ayiram Aruval Kottai Karuppasamy in Muthalapuram Village, Dindigul District.
The petitioner alleged that the ceremonial procession was deliberately excluded from entering the North Street, predominantly inhabited by his community, based on caste considerations. This exclusion, he argued, contravened constitutional rights enshrined in Articles 14, 15, 17, and 25, alongside the Tamil Nadu Temple Entry Authorization Act, 1947.
Respondents, including the District Collector and private parties, countered that the procession route adhered to long-standing customs and denied any caste-based discrimination. They argued that altering the route could disrupt communal harmony.
The High Court underscored that constitutional provisions, particularly Article 17, which abolishes untouchability, cannot be compromised by local customs. Justice Gowri emphasized that the Constitution envisages a social democracy where fraternity and equality are paramount, dismissing any tradition that fosters social exclusion.
Recognizing the need for a balanced approach, the court tasked the District Collector with conducting a comprehensive inquiry. This includes engaging with all stakeholders, assessing historical and logistical aspects of the procession route, and ensuring an inclusive festival framework. The Collector is to report findings and implement recommendations within twelve weeks.
The judgment reinforces the constitutional mandate for social inclusion, urging administrative bodies to transform religious festivals into platforms of equality and fraternity. It calls for the Superintendent of Police to ensure law and order, reiterating zero tolerance for caste discrimination.
This decision marks a significant step towards dismantling caste barriers in public religious events, advocating for a harmonious coexistence rooted in constitutional values.
Bottom line:-
Constitutional morality prevails over customary practices in public religious festivals when such customs result in caste-based exclusion. The Court directed the District Collector to ensure inclusivity in temple festivals and take measures to eliminate caste-based discrimination.
Statutory provision(s): Articles 14, 15, 17, 25, and 51A(e) of the Constitution of India, Tamil Nadu Temple Entry Authorization Act, 1947
Bakiyaraj v. District Collector, (Madras)(Madurai Bench) : Law Finder Doc id # 2933845
