Madras High Court

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court adopted a stern approach on Wednesday (3rd December) while hearing two separate contempt petitions filed against...

Despite a clear High Court order, officials blocked access to the Deepathoon pillar, stopped the petitioner escorted by CISF and triggered clashes with devotees, prompting strong criticism from BJP leaders and raising fresh concerns over state interference in Hindu rituals.

Justice G.R. Swaminathan said that lighting the Deepam on a hilltop is an old Tamil practice, and the very purpose of the Deepam is to hold a ceremonial flame.

The Madras HC ruled that no community can claim exclusive rights over public land, allowing Hindus to hold Annadhanam on the same ground where Easter celebrations were earlier permitted.

The High Court called out the callousness displayed by the actor's party, Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam, after the stampede.

Regarding denial of the preliminary report, the court said that it was not justified given the report was not classified as confidential or privileged. Justice Manjula stated that since Ponmanickavel was denied a copy of the preliminary report, he was essentially deprived of the opportunity to defend himself or approach court for quashing of the FIR.