In a significant directive aimed at safeguarding the rich heritage of Hindu temples, the Kerala High Court has instructed the state government to formulate a comprehensive law for protecting temple properties. This ruling comes amid growing concerns over encroachments and mismanagement that have plagued religious institutions across the state.
The court’s order emphasizes the need for stringent measures to prevent illegal occupations and ensure the preservation of assets belonging to over 3,000 temples under the Travancore Devaswom Board’s jurisdiction. Justices A.K. Jayasankaran Nambiar and Syam Kumar V.M. highlighted that existing mechanisms have proven inadequate, leading to substantial losses estimated in crores.
Background to the case reveals a petition filed by temple devotees and activists pointing to systematic encroachments on prime lands in areas like Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam. The bench criticized the Devaswom Boards for their laxity, noting that valuable properties worth billions have been lost due to negligence over decades.
The High Court mandated the government to draft the legislation within six months, incorporating provisions for digital inventory, anti-encroachment drives, and severe penalties for violations. It also called for an expert committee to assess the current status of temple lands and recommend immediate recovery actions.
This development has been welcomed by Hindu organizations, who see it as a vital step towards reclaiming lost assets and restoring the glory of Kerala’s ancient temples. Government officials have acknowledged the order, promising swift action to comply with judicial directives.
As Kerala balances secular governance with religious preservation, this ruling could set a precedent for other states grappling with similar issues, underscoring the judiciary’s role in protecting cultural legacies.