Archive · 13 Dec 2025
Tamil Nadu Challenges Court Order on Karthigai Deepam Location
There is a big argument about where to light a special lamp called Karthigai Deepam in Tamil Nadu.
The government and the temple say it should be lit near the Uchi Pillaiyar Mandapam, where it has been lit for many years.
But some people want it to be lit at a stone pillar near a dargah on the hilltop.
The court has allowed a peaceful protest and will decide on Monday.
The archaeology department did a survey of the stone pillar, which some people say is not fair because the matter is still in court.
There is also a big political fight about a judge who made the decision to allow the lamp to be lit at the stone pillar.
Some politicians want to remove the judge, but others say that is not right.
Tamil Nadu government challenges court order allowing Karthigai Deepam to be lit at the hilltop.
Advocate General argues that the deepam has been lit near Uchi Pillaiyar Mandapam for centuries.
Petitioners must prove the existence and connection of the alleged deepathoon to customary practice.
Temple administration and HR&CE Commissioner's counsel claim no evidence supports hilltop lighting.
Division bench adjourns the matter to Monday for petitioners' submissions.
Tamil Nadu Archaeology Department conducted a survey of the stone pillar, raising legal concerns.
Madras High Court allows peaceful fasting protest by local residents demanding the ritual to be performed at the hilltop location.
Impeachment notice submitted against Justice GR Swaminathan for alleged judicial misconduct.
- Who
- Tamil Nadu government, temple administration, Thiruparankundram residents, Justice GR Swaminathan, Tamil Nadu Archaeology Department
- What
- Legal and political dispute over the location of Karthigai Deepam lighting and impeachment notice against a judge
- When
- Arguments completed, next hearing on Monday; Impeachment notice submitted; Survey conducted on December 10, 2025
- Where
- Thiruparankundram hill, Madurai, Tamil Nadu
- Why
- Disagreement over the traditional and authorized location for lighting the Karthigai Deepam and allegations of judicial misconduct
- Location of Dispute
- Thiruparankundram hill, Madurai
- Traditional Practice
- Lighting near Uchi Pillaiyar Mandapam
- Petitioners' Claim
- Lighting at hilltop location (deepathoon)
- Court's Next Hearing
- Monday
- Residents' Action
- Peaceful fasting protest
- Archaeology Department's Action
- Conducted a survey of the stone pillar
- Impeachment Notice
- Against Justice GR Swaminathan
Sources
No Proof Of Burning Lamp On Top Of Hill, Tamil Nadu Tells Court
Tamil Nadu archaeology dept wades into Madurai temple row, adding fresh twist
Tamil Nadu Archaeology Dept 'Survey' Adds New Twist To Madurai Temple Row: What Is The Crisis All About?
‘Deepam’ row hands NDA a polarizing political plank ahead of Tamil Nadu polls
