Temple activist TR Ramesh expressed his satisfaction with the two significant proceedings that took place before a Special Bench of the Madras High Court today, February 29, 2024. The bench, consisting of Justice R Mahadevan and Justice PD Audikesavalu, heard cases related to temples and their administration.
Ramesh, a dedicated activist known for his persistent efforts against the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR and CE) for its alleged mismanagement of temples, handling of vast properties, and misuse of funds, was particularly pleased with the proceedings. He has been an advocate for the autonomy of temples, urging their liberation from government and HR and CE control.
Taking to social media, Ramesh highlighted the two significant developments that transpired during the court session. The first was related to his Public Interest Litigation (PIL), challenging the utilization of temple funds and properties for establishing secular colleges. According to Ramesh, the PIL, which came up for final arguments, had received a stay order on November 15, 2021, preventing the commencement of six colleges while allowing four to operate, subject to final orders.
During today’s proceedings, the Bench raised a crucial question, seeking Ramesh’s opinion on the possibility of the government constructing colleges on temple lands using government funds. The proposal involved the government paying rent to the respective temples for utilising the lands. The Bench opined that such an arrangement would serve the purpose of education while ensuring the protection of temple lands from encroachments, generating rental income for the temples.
Ramesh responded to the Bench, expressing his willingness to support the idea if the government adhered to the provisions in the HR and CE Act concerning the lease of temple lands and fair rent fixation. The Division Bench granted the government a two-week period to communicate its stance on the proposed solution.
In his statement, Ramesh conveyed his trust and hope that Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, Thiru MK Stalin, would make a decision that proves mutually beneficial for both the government and temples. He expressed gratitude to the Hon’ble Division Bench for suggesting an innovative solution that could enhance education accessibility for all while contributing to temple revenues and safeguarding temple properties.
Two excellent developments today before Hon'ble Special Bench of Madras High Court hearing Temple cases: – Hon'ble Justice Shri R. Mahadevan and Hon'ble Justice Shri P.D. Audikesavalu
A. 1. My PIL challenging starting of secular colleges with Temple funds and properties… pic.twitter.com/tJGW7VSScO
— trramesh (@trramesh) February 28, 2024
A writ petition filed by temple activist TR Ramesh challenging Government Order No. 138, wherein the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department (TNHRCE Dept) proposed the construction of 100 offices on temple lands, came before the Special Bench of the Madras High Court on the same day.
Ramesh, in a tweet, informed us that the government has been directed to file a reply within two weeks.
One of the BIGGEST FRAUDS carried out by TN Govt and @tnhrcedept in Hindu Temples is the carrying out of Civil Works for more than Rs. 1000/- Crores using Hindu Temple money – accumulated over many years.
The funds of the temples were mainly from donations made by Hindu… pic.twitter.com/buuY6OHWQ7
— trramesh (@trramesh) September 8, 2023
The Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department (HR and CE) is facing scrutiny over its inability to produce copies of appointment letters for Executive Officers (EOs) in temples under its control, as revealed during proceedings in the Madras High Court. The department has also admitted to the absence of crucial documents pertaining to temple properties.
According to reports, the HR and CE Commissioner has issued a circular to all temples under its jurisdiction, urging them to submit documents related to EO appointments, orders issued by the Hindu Religious Board prior to 1951, and asset registers, among others, as these records are missing from the department’s files. The circular has been dispatched to Zonal Joint Commissioners of 47 temples, emphasising the urgency of the matter due to pending court cases.
Temple activist TR Ramesh has criticised the department’s lack of accountability, highlighting discrepancies between the number of temples and official EOs listed on the HR and CE portal. Ramesh pointed out that while over 43,000 temples are under HR and CE control, only 668 EOs are officially recorded. Moreover, he raised concerns about the legality of EOs serving in multiple temples without proper appointment orders, some for as long as 30 to 40 years.
The situation becomes more alarming in temples like Mylai Kabaleeswar, Kanchi Kamatchi Amman, and Thirunageswaram Uppliappan, where management plans have been implemented without evidence of EO appointment orders. Ramesh cited Section 45, which stipulates a five-year tenure for EOs in certain temples like Nellaiappar and Kallazhagar, emphasising that the failure to adhere to this provision renders their appointments illegal.
Ramesh’s petition in 2022 raised concerns about the absence of EO appointments in 47 temples and questioned the legality of those appointed without proper documentation. In response, the court demanded an explanation from HR and CE. However, during the final hearing on January 19, 2024, the department failed to provide satisfactory answers.
The Madras High Court’s bench reiterated that EOs cannot remain in office beyond the stipulated five-year tenure, as per Section 45. With the petitioner highlighting discrepancies in EO appointments across temples, the court sought clarification from the government counsel. However, no explanation was offered by the HR and CE Commissioner, leading to further scrutiny.
The matter is scheduled for another hearing on March 5, 2024, as the court continues to seek clarity on the legality of EO appointments and the department’s failure to maintain essential records. The ongoing legal battle underscores the importance of transparency and adherence to legal procedures in the administration of temples, emphasising the need for accountability within the HR and CE department.
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