Petition filed in Kerala HC claims RSS conducted weapon training in temple

A petition has been filed in the Kerala High Court alleging that members of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) have illegally encroached upon the Sree Sarkara Devi Temple in Thiruvananthapuram to conduct mass drills and weapons training.

According to the plea submitted by two devotees and nearby residents of the temple, the alleged actions of the RSS members have caused distress and difficulties for the devotees and pilgrims, particularly women and children.

The petitioners argue that the respondents are engaging in unauthorized activities within the temple premises without permission from the relevant authorities. They claim that the RSS and other individuals from the organization are using tobacco products within the temple, which is impacting the cleanliness, purity, and sanctity of the sacred space. The plea states, “The unpleasant smell emanating by the usage of the above products by the 6th and 7th respondents along with their henchmen is causing great discomfort to the devotees visiting the temple, especially senior citizens, women and children.”

Furthermore, the petitioners contend that the respondents disrupt the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the temple by loudly chanting slogans during their mass drills and weapons training.

The petitioners argue that the Devaswom Commissioner issued a circular on March 30, 2021, instructing all relevant board officers to prohibit the use of the temple premises for mass drills and weaponry training. Subsequently, the petitioners lodged a complaint with the temple’s Administrative Officer, but allege that no action was taken.

Despite a subsequent circular from the Devaswom Commissioner emphasizing strict adherence to the initial directive, the plea claims that the violations persist.

Therefore, the petitioners have approached the Court, seeking to hold the respondent authorities accountable for ensuring that the temple and its premises are solely used for religious purposes and to protect their right to worship, which is a fundamental right guaranteed under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.

The case has been scheduled to be heard tomorrow before a Division Bench composed of Justice Anil K. Narendran and Justice P.G. Ajithkumar.

The plea has been filed by Advocate S. Nikhil Sankar on behalf of the petitioners.