The Supreme Court has issued notice on a petition filed by the Hindu Dharma Parishad seeking directions for daily lighting of a traditional lamp at the Thirupparankundram Hill in Tamil Nadu and for handing over the site to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
A Bench comprising Justices Aravind Kumar and Vipul M. Pancholi sought responses from the Union government, the Tamil Nadu government, the ASI and other concerned authorities on the issues raised in the plea. The petition invokes Article 32 of the Constitution and relates to religious practices associated with the Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy Temple complex near Madurai.
The petitioner organisation has sought permission for continuous lighting of the lamp at the ancient stone pillar known as the Deepathoon and has also requested that the hill be illuminated and made accessible for worship, particularly during the Tamil month of Karthigai. It further urged that the ASI assume control of the hill, citing its historical and cultural significance.
During the hearing, the Court was informed that related proceedings are pending before the Madras High Court. Earlier orders of the High Court had permitted the lighting of the lamp at the hilltop, observing that the practice was part of a long-standing tradition and did not infringe upon the rights of other communities.
By issuing notice, the Supreme Court has indicated that it will examine the broader questions raised concerning religious practices, heritage conservation and administrative control of historically significant sites.
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