The Madras High Court has upheld the single-judge directive allowing the lighting of the Karthigai lamp atop Thiruparankundram hill, a long-standing religious practice. The court criticized the State government for delaying compliance with the earlier order, emphasizing that the right to conduct religious rituals must be protected.

Single-Judge Directive Reaffirmed

The original single-judge order permitted devotees to light the traditional Karthigai lamp during the festival atop the hill. Despite the clear instructions, the State had previously imposed restrictions, citing administrative and security concerns. The division bench, now hearing the matter, slammed the State for failing to honor the directive, describing the delay as "unjustified and arbitrary."

Religious and Cultural Significance

The Karthigai lamp lighting is a significant festival ritual at Thiruparankundram, attracting thousands of devotees annually. The High Court reaffirmed that religious practices of historical and cultural importance cannot be obstructed without valid legal reasons.

State Criticism and Compliance

The court explicitly criticized the State government for inaction and instructed immediate implementation of the directive. Legal experts suggest that this judgment reinforces the judiciary’s role in safeguarding constitutional rights related to religious freedom.