Madurai Deepam Row: High Court Rejects DMK Plea, Backs Devotees’ Rights

In a major setback for the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government, the Madras High Court has dismissed the state’s plea to block the lighting of the Karthigai Deepam atop the Deepathoon at Thiruparankundram in Madurai. The court ruled that the ancient structure stands on Devasthanam temple land and upheld the devotees’ right to light the Deepam, rejecting the government’s law-and-order concerns as unfounded. Making strong observations, the High Court warned that peace cannot be breached unless it is state-sponsored and accused the administration of attempting to pit communities against each other for political ends. The Waqf Board’s claim over the land was termed “mischievous,” with the bench reminding the state of its responsibility to maintain public order. While the Opposition hailed the verdict as a win for the rule of law, the DMK has announced plans to challenge the ruling in the Supreme Court, ensuring the Deepam controversy remains a key political flashpoint ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.