The Madras High Court has ruled that the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department is authorized to investigate allegations of financial misconduct in temples that accept donations. This decision comes after the court overturned a previous order regarding the Prasanna Venkata Narasimma Perumal Temple in Chennai.
Key Ruling on Temple Mismanagement
A Division Bench composed of Justices S.M. Subramaniam and Mohammed Shaffiq delivered this significant ruling. The case centered on the temple’s management and its attempt to lease property without proper permissions.
Background of the Case
Initially, a single judge granted permission for the temple management to lease a property in West Saidapet for three years without needing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the HR&CE Commissioner. The single judge ruled this unnecessary due to the temple’s status as a denominational institution.
New Developments in the Case
However, upon appeal by a third party, the Division Bench clarified that the HR&CE department has a duty to investigate complaints of maladministration. This includes instances where financial irregularities are suspected.
- The temple management asserted it does not receive any public contributions.
- The Special Government Pleader, N.R.R. Arun Natarajan, countered this, stating that the temple does indeed accept donations.
In previous rulings, it was established that temples receiving public funds are considered public institutions, necessitating oversight by the state.
Instructions for Investigation
The Division Bench instructed the HR&CE Commissioner to appoint an officer of no less than the rank of Additional Commissioner to investigate the allegations. The inquiry must be completed within four weeks, following which appropriate actions must be taken.
Restrictions on Property Transactions
Furthermore, the court ordered that no additional leases or property transactions should occur until the Commissioner reaches a decision. This ruling aims to ensure financial accountability and transparency in temple administration.
The case highlights the important balance between religious practices and the need for oversight in managing charitable institutions in Tamil Nadu.
