The Supreme Court on Friday (Dec 13) expressed displeasure over “misrepresentation” of its last hearing in certain media reports pertaining to the hearing of a PIL against the practice of charging an additional fee for “VIP darshan” in temples across the country. A bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar last heard the plea filed by one Vijay Kishor Goswami on the issue on October 25 and made certain observations.
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NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court of India voiced its dissatisfaction on Friday over the “misrepresentation” of its previous hearing regarding a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the practice of levying additional fees for “VIP darshan” in temples across the country.
Media reports on the matter were flagged as inaccurately portraying the court’s proceedings.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar had earlier heard the PIL, filed by Vijay Kishor Goswami, on October 25.
The PIL raised concerns about the constitutionality and discriminatory nature of charging extra fees for expedited access to temple deities.
“Completely Misrepresented in the Media,” Says CJI
During the recent hearing, Chief Justice Khanna remarked,
“Last time whatever happened in the court was completely misrepresented in the media…completely misrepresented.”
He emphasized the importance of accurate reporting and noted how media exaggeration could distort the court’s proceedings.
The Chief Justice further explained,
“Look sometimes, in the course of hearing, we put some questions, you on a tangent saying I am not asking for this or that.”
The bench clarified that questions posed during hearings should not be “misconstrued” or “exaggerated” by the media.
Justice Sanjay Kumar also expressed his concern, stating,
“It is all over the country…Obviously you (PIL petitioner) went to the media. There is no question of them finding out what is happening in the court. Some stray observation of the CJI… and you blew (it) out of proportion.”
Responding to this, the lawyer representing the petitioner said,
“There are journalists who track hearings.”
Despite the explanations, the court reiterated its concerns and advised caution in interpreting judicial observations.
Petition Highlights Inequality in “VIP Darshan” Practice
The PIL argues that charging additional fees for “VIP darshan” is a violation of the constitutional principles of equality enshrined in Articles 14 and 21. The plea emphasizes that this practice discriminates against devotees unable to afford such charges, thereby creating a divide based on economic status.
The petition further pointed out that the fees, which range between Rs 400 and Rs 500 for special access, disproportionately affect disadvantaged groups, including women, persons with disabilities, and senior citizens.
It argued that such practices undermine the principle of equal access to religious spaces.
Lack of Uniform Implementation Across States
Despite raising the issue with the Home Ministry, the plea noted that only Andhra Pradesh received directives addressing the matter.
Other states, such as Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh, have not implemented similar measures to regulate the additional fees.
This inconsistency further highlights the need for a standardized approach across the country.
Relief Sought by the PIL
The petition seeks several remedies, including:
- Declaration of Fees as Unconstitutional: The PIL urges the court to declare the levying of additional fees for special temple access as violative of constitutional rights, particularly equality and religious freedom.
- Equal Treatment of Devotees: It requests the implementation of measures to ensure all devotees receive equal treatment within temple premises, irrespective of their financial status.
- Framing of SOPs: The plea calls for the Central Government to frame standard operating procedures to guarantee equitable access to temples for all.
- National Temple Management Board: The petition also proposes the establishment of a national board to oversee the management and administration of temples across the country, ensuring consistent practices nationwide.
Next Hearing Scheduled for January 2025
The bench has now scheduled the next hearing for the week commencing January 27, 2025.
Until then, the court has advised all parties involved to exercise restraint and avoid misrepresentation of its proceedings.
This case not only underscores the significance of accurate media reporting on judicial matters but also brings attention to broader issues of equality and accessibility in religious practices. As the hearing progresses, the outcome may set a precedent for ensuring inclusive access to places of worship in India.
Click Here to Read Previous Reports on VIP Darshan
Click Here to Read Previous Reports on CJI
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