Read Time: 04 minutes

The Madurai Bench of Madras High Court recently directed the Commissioner of Sankarankovil municipality to consider a representation against the proposed construction of an electric crematorium adjoining 'century-old' Arulmigu Aruvam Soodiya Vinayagar Temple in Sankarankovil. 

The bench of Justice Abdul Quddhose directed the Commissioner to take a decision within six months. Court also directed the authorities to consider the petitioner's representation to preserve the ancient monument and the religious institution.

One M. Nagarajan filed a writ petition before the high court. Nagarajan had alleged that he is a worshipper of the deity in the subject temple. He claimed that the subject temple is an ancient temple and a crematorium if constructed adjoining it, will be detrimental to its interest.

He apprised the court that he filed a representation before the concerned municipality authorities dated December 27, 2021, which is still pending, therefore, he had to move the high court with his plea. 

As per Nagarajan, the temple is an ancient stone temple constructed during the Pandya dynasty with beautiful sculptures. He said that the temple has archaeological importance and should be declared a protected monument. He added that it is also surrounded by around 200 acres of wetlands used for paddy cultivation.

Therefore, further alleging that the construction of the crematorium would affect the sentiments of the devotees and cause difficulties for vehicle movement, Nagarajan sought directions from the Court. 

Disposing of the Nagarajan's plea with the abovesaid directions, Court said, "No prejudice would be caused to the respondents, if the petitioner's representation is considered on merits and in accordance with law, after affording a fair hearing to the petitioner and the third respondent temple as well as any other necessary party, whom the fourth respondent deems fit to enquire."

Case Title: M.Nagarajan v. The District Collector, Tenkasi District and Others