Tamil Nadu: Controversy erupts as two temples demolished despite protests by devotees

Despite heavy rain and protests from devotees, two temples in Tamil Nadu were razed down by government authorities, citing court orders. The demolition took place in Kallakurichi, where a Vinayagar temple located on Gandhi Road faced demolition along with the Sri Dharmasaastha Temple.

The Madras High Court had previously ordered the removal of 36 encroachments, including buildings and temples situated along the canal. The Vinayagar Temple, managed by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR and CE) Department, was among the structures encroaching upon the irrigation channel.

Armed with court orders, officials from the Water Resources Department, Public Works Department, and Revenue Department arrived at the site to carry out the demolition. Despite facing adverse weather conditions and opposition from devotees, the authorities were determined to proceed with the demolition without delay.

Critics argue that the demolition of temples reflects a concerning trend of targeting Hindu religious structures under the guise of court orders. They point out that while the government shows promptness in demolishing temples, other encroachments and illegal structures often go unaddressed.

“The demolition of temples raises questions about the government’s priorities and commitment to preserving religious heritage,” said one critic. “While it is important to address encroachments and ensure compliance with court orders, the authorities must also demonstrate sensitivity towards religious sentiments and consider alternative solutions.”

The demolition of temples has sparked outrage among devotees and religious organisations, who view it as an attack on Hindu culture and traditions.

Protesters, including members of the Hindu Munnani, BJP, and the public, expressed their discontent with the decision, arguing that the demolition of Hindu temples was unjustified. They accused the authorities of bias, suggesting that mosques or churches would not face similar treatment.

The situation escalated when the ADMK city secretary and temple management requested time to remove the idols of the deities and negotiate with the District Collector. However, when their requests were denied, police forcibly evicted protesters from the temple premises.

Officials from the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR and CE) Department were tasked with removing the idols from the temples. Nine idols, including six stone and three metal ones, were carefully removed and transported to another temple for safekeeping. Accessories such as silver armours (kavasam) and bells were handed over to the temple management.

Reports indicated the presence of several government officials, including RDO Lourdesamy, Tahsildar Prabhakaran, and Assistant Commissioner of HR and CE Department Nagaraj. Police, led by DSP Devaraj, were deployed to maintain security during the demolition process.

Meanwhile, allegations of selective targeting of Hindu temples surfaced on social media platforms. A fact-check post refuted claims of religious bias, stating that the demolition was part of a broader effort to remove encroachments, including temples, along the canal. However, this explanation did little to assuage concerns among the Hindu community, who viewed the demolition as an attack on their religious beliefs.

In a separate incident, a Hindu Munnani cadre raised objections to a Christian prayer meet banner placed in front of a Vaishnavite temple. The incident underscored growing tensions over religious symbols and spaces in the region.

Critics highlighted the need for Hindus to unite and mobilise politically to protect their religious heritage. They argued that minority appeasement policies would continue unchecked unless Hindus actively voice their concerns and consolidated their voting power.