The ongoing controversy over the lamp-lighting custom at the Thiruparankundram hill shrine of Lord Murugan in Tamil Nadu has intensified political debates, with the BJP sharply criticizing the DMK-Congress government for opposing the High Court’s decision permitting the practice. The court’s ruling has affirmed the continuation of a centuries-old tradition, emphasizing the legal protection of religious customs.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed the High Court’s judgment, emphasizing that citizens have the right to practice their religion freely under the Constitution. He condemned the calls for the impeachment of the judge who authorized the lamp-lighting, describing such demands as an attack on judicial independence and a dangerous precedent against religious freedom.
The lamp-lighting custom at Thiruparankundram hill, a prominent Murugan shrine, has been practiced for generations, attracting devotees from across Tamil Nadu. Certain sections of the public and government authorities had raised objections, citing ritualistic concerns or environmental reasons, which led to legal scrutiny. The High Court, after hearing multiple petitions, ruled in favor of allowing the tradition to continue, recognizing its historical and religious significance.
BJP leaders accused the DMK-Congress alliance of politicizing the issue for appeasement purposes. Party spokespersons described the opposition as an attempt to undermine Hindu traditions, arguing that the government’s stance reflects selective secularism. The BJP emphasized that respecting the judiciary’s decision is essential to uphold constitutional values and religious rights.
Political analysts note that the controversy highlights the sensitive interplay between law, politics, and religion in Tamil Nadu. Religious practices in the state often have deep historical roots, and attempts to regulate or oppose such customs can trigger widespread public debate. The BJP’s response is seen as a strategy to position itself as a defender of religious freedoms and cultural heritage in the region.
Supporters of the lamp-lighting ritual celebrated the court ruling, viewing it as a victory for faith-based traditions. Devotees argue that the practice reinforces community identity, spiritual continuity, and cultural heritage. Meanwhile, the government has been urged to maintain neutrality, ensuring that political considerations do not interfere with religious rights.
This incident underscores the challenges governments face in balancing tradition with modern governance. While concerns about safety, environmental impact, or administrative control are valid, they must be addressed without infringing on long-standing religious customs. Legal interventions, such as the High Court’s ruling, provide a framework to mediate between competing interests while safeguarding fundamental rights.
The debate over the Thiruparankundram lamp-lighting reflects broader trends in Indian politics, where religious practices and judicial decisions often intersect with electoral strategies. For the BJP, defending the custom serves both political and ideological objectives, while the DMK-Congress government faces pressure to demonstrate sensitivity toward minority and majority communities simultaneously.
Ultimately, the court’s approval allows devotees to continue the lamp-lighting tradition without interruption. The ruling reinforces the principle that religious customs with historical legitimacy should be protected while encouraging dialogue between authorities and community stakeholders to resolve disputes respectfully.
