Court mandates equal treatment for all devotees, prohibiting discrimination based on caste in religious rituals and practices.
In a landmark decision, the Madras High Court has reinforced the principle of equality in religious practices at the Arulmigu Devaraja Swamigal Temple in Kanchipuram. The court addressed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Madhavan Ramanuja Dasan, a devotee and Secretary of Thirukatchi Nambi Thirumaladiar Seva Sangam, challenging discriminatory practices against non-Brahmin devotees at the temple.
The petitioner highlighted that non-Brahmin devotees were denied entry through the temple's main entrance and discriminated against in receiving Theertham, Satari, and Prasadham. Additionally, restrictions were imposed on non-Brahmin devotees from reciting hymns and Prabandhams within the temple premises.
The court, comprising Dr. G. Jayachandran and E. Manoharan, JJ., emphasized that discrimination at places of worship contravenes legal and divine principles. Citing the Bhagavad Gita, the court reiterated that in the eyes of God, all beings are equal, and any form of discrimination is impermissible.
The temple administration, represented by the Special Government Pleader, assured the court that measures would be implemented to ensure equal treatment of all devotees. The administration agreed to eliminate discriminatory practices in the distribution of religious offerings and allow devotees to recite hymns without restrictions, except for rituals specifically reserved for the Thenkalai Sect.
The court recorded these assurances as undertakings, effectively resolving the grievances raised by the petitioner. The judgment underscores the importance of upholding constitutional values of equality and non-discrimination in religious institutions.
The decision is a significant step towards fostering inclusivity and equality in religious practices, reinforcing that places of worship must be accessible and welcoming to all, irrespective of caste or community.
Bottom Line :
Discrimination at places of worship is impermissible under law, and all devotees are entitled to equal treatment in religious practices and rituals.
Statutory provision(s): Bhagavad Gita (cited for reference), principles of equality and non-discrimination in religious practices.
