Madras HC Slams Madurai Authorities Over Karthigai Deepam Contempt Case

• Madras High Court criticized Tamil Nadu government and Madurai authorities for failing to respond in a contempt case regarding the Karthigai Deepam lamp-lighting ritual.
• Justice GR Swaminathan expressed displeasure over Madurai officials' non-compliance with an earlier order permitting the lamp lighting at Thiruparankundram hill.
• The court questioned the temple administration about a flag tied by a nearby dargah on temple land, asking why no criminal trespass case was registered.
• A Division Bench upheld Justice Swaminathan's order, rejecting the State's claim that the ritual could disturb public peace and stating the Deepa Thoon is on temple land.
• The court directed the Devasthanam to light the lamp with ASI and police consultation, limiting participants and requiring the District Collector's supervision.

Why It Matters: Madras HC upholds Karthigai Deepam ritual, slams Madurai authorities for contempt and state's objections.