Today, On 31st January, The Supreme Court declined to hear a PIL challenging VIP darshans at temples. While the court agreed that such special treatment should not be given, it stated that it could not pass orders on the matter. The judges acknowledged concerns over fairness in temple access. However, they emphasized that regulating religious practices is beyond their jurisdiction.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court declined to entertain a public interest litigation (PIL) petition that sought to address the growing trend of granting preferential access to ‘VIPs’ in temples across India.
The Bench, consisting of Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar, acknowledged their agreement that such preferential treatment should not occur but stated that the Court could not issue directives on this matter.
The Court remarked,
“We will not entertain this. While we may believe that no special preference should be given, this court cannot issue directions under Article 32,”
However, they clarified that the relevant authorities are not prevented from taking action on the issue.
The petition raised concerns about VIP and paid darshans at religious sites, highlighting that such preferential entries have led to stampedes.
The counsel for the petitioner argued,
“Preferential entries are being given, and this has also created stampedes. The Constitution imposes a duty on States to eliminate inequality.”
Despite these arguments, the Court chose not to entertain the plea. This hearing coincided with recent stampedes that occurred in Uttar Pradesh during the ongoing Maha Kumbh, which prompted the state government to cancel all VVIP passes following tragic fatalities.
In a related matter, the Kerala High Court recently criticized the Travancore Devaswom Board for granting VIP darshan to Malayalam actor Dileep at the Sabarimala temple, noting that such preferential treatment hindered other pilgrims.
VIP darshan refers to a special privilege given to certain individuals, allowing them quicker access to temple deities without waiting in long queues. Many famous temples in India offer VIP darshan for politicians, celebrities, bureaucrats, and those who pay a donation or special fee.
Also Read: VIP Treatment To Actor Dileep Blocked Other Pilgrims’ Darshan At Sabarimala: High Court
Key Aspects of VIP Darshan:
- Priority Access – VIPs get a separate entry, avoiding long public queues.
- Paid Darshan Options – Many temples offer special tickets for faster darshan.
- Controversies – Critics argue it creates inequality in religious places.
- Court Interventions – The judiciary has occasionally questioned such preferential treatment but has not banned it.
Famous Temples Offering VIP Darshan:
- Tirumala Tirupati Balaji (Andhra Pradesh) – Special darshan for donors and officials.
- Shirdi Sai Baba Temple (Maharashtra) – VIP passes available for a donation.
- Vaishno Devi Temple (Jammu & Kashmir) – Priority darshan for high-ranking officials.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Uttar Pradesh) – Fast-track entry for VIPs.
- Jagannath Temple (Puri, Odisha) – Special access for influential visitors.
While VIP darshans continue to be a tradition, many believe temples should ensure equal access for all devotees.
Case Title: Vijay Kishor Goswami v. Union Of India