R.RAJASELVAN Vs. STATE OF TAMIL NADU

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The Writ Petition in W.P.(MD)No.1126 of 2019 has been filed in pro bono publico to direct the State to sanction necessary amount for the renovation and Kumbabishekam of Arulmighu Aathikesava Perumal Temple, Thiruvattaru, Kanyakumari District, taking into account the proposal dated 01 February, 2018, forwarded by the Executive Officer of the Temple and to approve the proposals for appointment of employees to various temples in the District.

(2.) The Aathikesava Perumal Temple is one among the Divya Desoms. The Deity is stated to be older than Sri.Anantha Padmanabha Swamy at Trivendrum. The Temple is famous for its murals and architecture. The local people and devotees joined together with the temple administration for the renovation of the Temple and to conduct the Kumbabhisekam. The donors have undertaken various works inside the Temple to expediate the process of renovation and to conduct the Kumbabhisekam. The proposal made by the Executive Officer for sanctioning a sum of Rs. 98.50 Lakhs was kept pending in the office of the Commissioner, Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department [hereinafter referred to as 'the Commissioner']. Since there was no progress, the petitioner has come up with this Writ Petition.

(3.) The petitioner has taken up another issue relating to the proposals made for appointment of employees for various temples in Kanyakumari District. The proposals were made on 27 November, 2017 and in the month of April, 2018. The temples in the District are facing considerable difficulties on account of non- filling the sanctioned posts, in spite of completing the selection process.