Kerala High Court rejects plea to erect saffron flags at temple, says temples cannot be used for politics

The Kerala High Court recently dismissed a petition that sought permission to erect saffron flags on the premises of the Muthupilakkadu Sree Parthasarathy temple. [R Sreenath & Anr. v State of Kerala & Ors.].Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V observed that using a hallowed temple grounds for political one-upmanship, in this case by using flags associated with certain political parties, cannot be allowed. "Temples stand as beacons of spiritual solace and tranquility, their sanctity and reverence being of paramount importance. Such hallowed spiritual grounds must not be diminished by political maneuverings or attempts at one-upmanship. ...The actions and intentions of the petitioners are clearly at odds with the serene and sacred atmosphere to be maintained in the temple", the Court said in its judgment..The petition was moved by two persons who claimed to devotees of the Muthupilakkadu Sree Parthasarathy temple. In 2022, they purportedly formed an organisation called “Parthasarathy Bakthajanasamithi,” aimed at the welfare of the temple and its devotees. They contended that their attempts to put up saffron flags on temple premises during special occasions and festivals were always thwarted by the respondents, who allegedly used their political influence. Therefore, they sought an order from the Court to direct the police to give them protection so that they are not obstructed from erecting the flags..Opposing the plea, the Government Pleader argued that allowing the petitioners to decorate the temple with flags and festoons associated with a certain political party would be akin to allowing the temple to be used as a battleground for political one-upmanship.He added that there have been numerous clashes in the temple premises due to the actions of the petitioners, one of whom is involved in many criminal cases. Moreover, the temple's Administrative Committee has passed a resolution prohibiting the installation of flags, banners, etc., of any political parties or organizations within a radius of 100 meters of the Kanikkavanchi. The Government Pleader also submitted a 2020 judgment of the High Court that had ordered the police to remove all such installations from temple premises..Having considered the rival contentions, the Court ultimately dismissed the petition."The petitioners have not demonstrated any legitimate authority to conduct temple rituals as they have prayed for. Furthermore, they cannot be allowed to erect flags or festoons in or around the temple, in light of the orders issued by this Court and decision taken by the administrative committee", the judgment stated..The petitioners were represented by advocates PT Sheehish, A Abdul Rahhman, Aparna V Devassia, and Hemanth H.Government Pleader Appu PS appeared for the State.The other respondents were represented by advocates Jayaprabha Arjun, Ajay S Koshy, Aswin V Nair, and Abijith M..[Read Judgment]