The MP High Court Bar Council President, Dhanya Kumar Jain, apologized to Chief Justice Suresh Kumar Kaith over false allegations of demolishing a Hanuman temple at the Chief Justice’s residence. Jain admitted his claims were based on misinformation from a lawyer’s complaint. Clarifications from the PWD department and High Court administration confirmed that no temple ever existed at the site. Expressing regret for the confusion caused, Jain assured no further action would be pursued on the matter.
Bar Association President Dhanya Kumar Jain previously accused MP High Court Chief Justice Suresh Kumar Kaith of demolishing a temple at his official residence.
However, Jain has since retracted these claims and issued an apology in a letter to the Chief Justice, labeling the allegations as unfounded.
In his letter, Jain explained,
“In December 2024, a lawyer named Ravindra Nath Tripathi submitted an application to me, alleging that a temple in the Chief Justice’s bungalow had been demolished. Based on this, I wrote letters to the Chief Justice, the President, and the Prime Minister seeking an inquiry. However, I have now received responses from the PWD department and the High Court administration clarifying that no temple ever existed in the Chief Justice’s bungalow.”
He further stated,
“I realize that my letter created confusion, for which I am deeply regretful. I express my apologies and respect to the Chief Justice.”
After clarifications were provided by the Registrar and the High Court, Jain formally apologized to Chief Justice Suresh Kumar Kaith.
He assured that such a mistake would not happen again and requested that no further action be taken regarding his earlier application.
The complaint notes that all Chief Justices of the Madhya Pradesh High Court have shown respect for the temple. During the tenures of Chief Justices Rifat Alam and Rafiq Ahmed, staff members regularly prayed there without any objections from these judges, demonstrating a commitment to harmony and mutual respect for spiritual practices.
The bungalow, along with the temple, is government property. The temple has been renovated with public funds, reinforcing its status as a community asset. It serves as a spiritual space for many employees, primarily those following Sanatan Dharma, allowing them to practice their religion close to their workplace. Any demolition of the temple without proper authorization would disrespect the sentiments of many who value it.
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