Full Judgment
IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUDICATURE AT MADRAS
DATED: 12.01.2026
CORAM:
THE HONOURABLE MR. JUSTICE D.BHARATHA CHAKRAVARTHY Mr.A.Radhakrishnan ... Petitioner Vs
1. The Commissioner, Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department, 119, Nungambakkam High Road, Chennai - 600 034.
2. The District Executive Magistrate / Collector,
3. The Commissioner of Police, Line Medu, Salem - 636 001.
4. The Joint Commissioner, Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department, Nethimedu, Salem - 636 002.
5. The Chairman Board of Trustees/Fit Person,
6. The Assistant Commissioner / Executive Officer, Salem Town - 636 001. ... Respondents
PRAYER: Writ Petition filed under Article 226 of the Constitution of India, to issue writ of mandamus, directing the respondents to take appropriate administrative and security measures in connection with the Kumbabishekam schedule on 28.01.2026 at 6th respondent temple by considering petitioner’s representation dated 25.09.2025 and 22.12.2025 and pass such further or other orders. For Petitioner : Mr.R.Marudhachalamurthy For Respondents : Mr.K.Karthikeyan Government Advocate (HR & CE) for R1 & R4 to R6 : Dr.C.E.Pratap Government Advocate (Crl.side) for R3 : Mr.S.Senthil Murugan Special Government Pleader for R2
ORDER
This writ petition has been filed seeking a mandamus, directing the respondents to take appropriate administrative and security measures in connection with the ‘Kumbabishekam’ scheduled to be conducted on 28.01.2026 at the 6th respondent temple, by considering the petitioner’s representations dated 25.09.2025 and 22.12.2025.
2. When the matter came up for hearing today, the learned
Government Advocate (HR & CE) would submit that a communication has already been issued to all the line Departments, including the Commissioner of Police, Salem, and therefore, due protection from the police will be provided. Such other protective measures, such as erection of barricade etc., will also be undertaken before the ‘Kumbabishekam’ to regulate the crowd.
3. In view thereof, the HR & CE authorities and the police shall
ensure smooth darshan of the devotees and the conduct of the festival, ensuring the life and security of everyone. The authorities shall act upon the receipt of the web copy of the order, without waiting for the certified copy.
4. Accordingly, the writ petition stands disposed of. No costs. 12.01.2026 Neutral Citation: No veda To
1. The Commissioner, Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department, 119, Nungambakkam High Road, Chennai - 600 034.
2. The District Executive Magistrate / Collector,
3. The Commissioner of Police, Line Medu, Salem - 636 001.
4. The Joint Commissioner, Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department, Nethimedu, Salem - 636 002.
5. The Chairman Board of Trustees/Fit Person,
6. The Assistant Commissioner / Executive Officer,
D.BHARATHA CHAKRAVARTHY, J.
veda 12.01.2026