Court Directs Petitioners to Seek Remedy Under Telangana Charitable and Hindu Religious Institutions and Endowments Act, 1987
In a significant decision, the Telangana High Court has intervened in the ongoing dispute regarding the alteration of ritual practices at the Sri Someshwara Laxminarasimha Swamy Devasthanam, Palakurthy, Jangaon District. The petitioners, Devagiri Venkata Rajeshwara Sharma and others, approached the court seeking relief against the notification issued by the temple authorities that sought to change the established ritual procedures from "Shaiva Agama" to "Vaidika Smartha Agama."
The court, presided over by Justice Surepalli Nanda, directed the petitioners to avail the statutory remedy of appeal under Section 93 of the Telangana Charitable and Hindu Religious Institutions and Endowments Act, 1987, before seeking judicial intervention. The petitioners claimed hereditary rights to perform temple rituals as per the "Shaiva Agama" tradition, which has been practiced by their family for over six generations.
The petitioners argued that the notification dated 23.11.2025 was issued without notice or inquiry, violating the principles of natural justice. They contended that the change in ritual practices was contrary to the established customs and traditions of the temple, and the eligibility criteria based on "Vaidika Smartha Agama" were incorrect.
In response, the court granted interim relief, directing the respondents not to proceed with the impugned notification until the statutory appeal and subsequent decisions are finalized. The court emphasized the importance of considering petitioners' objections and ensuring due process before altering ritual practices.
The court's decision highlights the significance of following due process and respecting traditional practices in religious institutions. The petitioners now have the opportunity to present their case before the appropriate authority under the Telangana Charitable and Hindu Religious Institutions and Endowments Act, 1987.
The case underscores the tension between modern administrative decisions and long-standing religious traditions, emphasizing the need for careful consideration and adherence to legal procedures when making changes that affect religious practices.
Bottom line:-
Religious Practices - Court directs petitioners to avail statutory remedy of appeal under the Telangana Charitable and Hindu Religious Institutions and Endowments Act, 1987, before the appropriate authority concerning the change in ritual procedure from "Shaiva Agama" to "Vaidika Smartha Agama."
Statutory provision(s): Telangana Charitable and Hindu Religious Institutions and Endowments Act, 1987, Section 93; Principles of Natural Justice; Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Constitution of India.
Devagiri Venkata Rajeshwara Sharma v. State of Telangana, (Telangana) : Law Finder Doc id # 2940804
