Kerala HC Seeks State And RSS Response On Alleged Weapons Training In Temple Premises

The Kerala High Court on Tuesday sought a response from the State government and two Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) members in relation to an allegation.

The plea claims that RSS members have been engaging in mass drills and weaponry training by encroaching on the premises of Sree Sarakara Devi Temple, Chirayinkeezhu, in violation of the law.

A bench comprising Justice Anil K Narendran and Justice PG Ajithkumar has issued a notice to the State, Travancore Devaswom Board, and the concerned RSS members. The case has been scheduled for further consideration on June 26, 2023.

The plea, filed by two devotees and temple residents, asserts that the actions of RSS members are causing distress and difficulties for pilgrims and devotees, particularly women and children, who visit the temple. It highlights that the RSS members persist in conducting drills and training between 5 PM and 12 AM on a daily basis, disregarding the circulars issued by the Travancore Devaswom Board and the temple’s administrative officer, which prohibit such unauthorized activities within the temple premises.

“The 6th and 7th respondents (2 RSS members) along with their henchmen shout loud slogans as a part of their mass drill /weaponry training,thus disrupting the peaceful and serene atmosphere required to be maintained at a temple.Petitioners hence begs to submit that due to the above actions of the 6th and 7th respondents and their henchmen,ardent devotees belonging to senior citizens, women and children category find it much difficult to visit temple during aforementioned hours due to loss of peace of mind, causing mental stress, agony and loss of calm atmosphere required to be maintained during meditation and offering prayers at `Sree Sarkara Devi Temple,” the plea stated.

It was alleged that the RSS members, within the temple premises, engage in the use of tobacco products such as ‘Hans’ and ‘Pan Masala’. This practice is claimed to have a negative impact on the cleanliness and sanctity of the temple.

“The unpleasant smell emanating from the usage of the above products by the 6^th and 7^th respondents along with their henchmen is causing great discomfort to the devotees visiting the temple, especially senior citizens, women, and children,” the plea further claimed.

Furthermore, according to the plea, the RSS members disturb the peaceful and tranquil ambiance of the temple by loudly chanting slogans during their mass drill and weaponry training sessions.

The petitioners also argued that despite bringing the matter to the attention of the temple administrator, no action has been taken to address the issue.