The Allahabad High Court has adjourned a Public Interest Litigation filed by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy, challenging a 2017 Uttar Pradesh government decision to manage prominent temple festivals. The court will reconsider the case on January 17, 2024. The petition argues the government’s actions violate constitutional rights and questions state involvement in religious affairs.
Allahabad: The Allahabad High Court today on Dec 9th, adjourned the hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy challenging the Uttar Pradesh government’s 2017 decision to take over the management of melas and festivals associated with several prominent temples in the state.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Arun Bhansali and Justice Vikas Budhwar deferred the matter to January 17, 2024, following a request for adjournment by the advocate representing the petitioner.
Subramanian Swamy’s PIL contends that the government’s move violates Articles 14, 25, and 31A of the Indian Constitution. The petition argues that the UP Government’s notification is an attempt to arbitrarily and unconstitutionally take control over the administration, management, and religious celebrations of temples in question.
The plea further seeks a direction to permanently restrain the state government from taking over the administration of these festivals or declaring them as “government melas.”
The government’s 2017 notification covers major festivals held at:
- Maa Lalita Devi Shaktipeeth, Naimisharanya (District Sitapur)
- Maa Vindhyavasini Shaktirith (District Mirzapur)
- Maa Pateshwari Shaktipeeth, Devipatan Tulsipur (District Balrampur)
- Shakumbhari Mata Temple (District Saharanpur)
These fairs, especially during Navratri, draw lakhs of devotees annually.
The Uttar Pradesh government has justified the move, asserting that declaring these festivals as state-organized events will enhance the district administration’s ability to provide essential facilities for the large influx of devotees. Additionally, the government aims to elevate these religious events to international standards to attract tourism and boost infrastructure.
The petition was drafted by Advocates Vishesh Kanodia and Satya Sabharwal, with assistance from Advocate Arpit Malvya.
While the matter remains sub judice, it raises crucial questions about the state’s involvement in religious affairs and the potential implications on the autonomy of temple administrations.
The hearing on January 17 is expected to delve deeper into the constitutional validity of the government’s notification and its broader impact on freedom of religion and equality under the law.
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