Tamil Nadu: The Thirupparankundram Deepam row has reached India’s top court, with the seeking responses from the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government on a plea demanding the takeover of the historic site by the .
The petition raises serious concerns over heritage protection, religious practices, and administrative control at Thirupparankundram, a site of deep religious and historical importance in Tamil Nadu.
The matter has triggered nationwide debate on balancing faith, conservation, and governance.
What Is the Thirupparankundram Deepam Row?
Thirupparankundram, located near Madurai, is one of the most revered religious sites in Tamil Nadu. It is closely associated with the , one of the six sacred abodes (Arupadai Veedu) of Lord Murugan.
Read also: Karthigai Deepam Row Ends: Madras High Court Upholds Lamp Lighting atop Thiruparankundram Hill
The controversy revolves around the Deepam (sacred flame) tradition observed at the hilltop. Petitioners allege that mismanagement, unchecked human activity, and lack of proper heritage safeguards are threatening the sanctity and historical value of the site.
Why Has an ASI Takeover Been Demanded in Thirupparankundram Deepam Row
The plea before the Supreme Court seeks ASI control over the Thirupparankundram hill and surrounding heritage structures. The key reasons cited include:
- Protection of ancient rock-cut caves and inscriptions
- Prevention of environmental and structural damage
- Regulation of large-scale religious gatherings
- Ensuring heritage conservation under national laws
According to the petitioners, ASI oversight would bring scientific conservation methods and uniform regulation, which they claim is currently missing.
Supreme Court’s Stand on the Thirupparankundram Deepam Row
The Supreme Court has not passed any interim order yet. Instead, it has formally sought responses from both the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government to understand their position on the ASI takeover plea.
The court’s move signals that it considers the matter significant, especially since it involves:
- A protected heritage zone
- Religious sentiments of lakhs of devotees
- Federal and state administrative responsibilities
The next hearing is expected to focus on whether judicial intervention is required to protect the site.
Role of the Central and Tamil Nadu Governments
The responses are expected from the and the .
Key questions they must address include:
- Whether the site already falls under any protected category
- Existing conservation and management measures
- The feasibility and implications of an ASI takeover
- Impact on local religious customs and administration
Their replies will play a crucial role in shaping the court’s final decision.
What Happens Next?
The Supreme Court will examine the responses filed by the Centre and Tamil Nadu government before deciding:
- Whether ASI intervention is necessary
- If alternative conservation measures can be enforced
- How to balance religious freedom with heritage protection
Until then, the status quo at Thirupparankundram will continue.
