HomeLatestHC summons collector, tahsildar over girivalam path encroachments

HC summons collector, tahsildar over girivalam path encroachments

Madurai: The Madras High Court has directed the Dindigul district collector and the Palani tahsildar to appear before the court, following non-compliance with a previous order mandating the removal of encroachments from the girivalam path around the Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple in Palani. The directive was issued after a report from the temple’s joint commissioner/executive officer highlighted ongoing issues with encroachers.

According to the report, the temple had obtained permission from the HR & CE commissioner to offer land leases to 138 encroachers occupying spaces at Anna Chetti Madam and the girivalam path, as well as PWD land. However, the encroachers have not taken up the offer, instead attempting to delay the process by claiming patta (ownership) for the land parcels intended for allotment. Despite the issuance of additional notices by revenue authorities, the encroachers have not responded. A notable encroachment by the Pulipani Ashram on the girivalam path remains unresolved. On June 20, efforts by revenue and survey departments to assess the temple property were thwarted by individuals from the ashram. Although commercial establishments were initially closed as part of the court-ordered clearing of the inner circle of the girivalam path, the ashram subsequently defied the order by reopening and leasing the shops for commercial purposes.

In light of these developments, a division bench comprising Justice D Krishnakumar and Justice R Vijayakumar observed that the encroachers’ claims for patta contradict their earlier expressed willingness to accept alternative accommodation. The bench criticised the authorities for failing to take necessary actions to remove the encroachments by issuing short notices to the encroachers, thereby not complying with previous court directives. The judges have ordered the collector and tahsildar to appear before the court during the next hearing. Additionally, revenue officials have been instructed to file a report detailing the actions taken in response to the temple joint commissioner’s submissions. This court mandate comes amidst a contempt petition filed by A Radhakrishnan, which complains about the non-compliance with the earlier order regarding the removal of encroachments around the girivalam path.

The hearing in this case has been adjourned to July 2, by which time the authorities are expected to demonstrate compliance with the court’s directives. This ongoing issue underscores the challenges faced by temple administration in ensuring the sanctity and accessibility of religious paths, and the critical need for adherence to judicial orders in resolving such disputes. The court’s insistence on accountability highlights the judiciary’s role in upholding the rule of law and protecting public and religious interests from encroachment and misuse. As the case progresses, it remains to be seen whether the authorities will fulfil their obligations and restore order to the affected areas surrounding the Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple.

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