The Supreme Court on Thursday set aside an Allahabad High Court order that had halted the ongoing Ramlila celebrations at the Zila Parishad Vidyalaya ground in Tundla, Firozabad (U.P.).
Noting that the festivities had already begun, the Court permitted the organizers to continue using the school playground this year but made it clear that students must not face any inconvenience.
SC Urges Search For Alternative Site
A bench of Justices Surya Kant, Ujjal Bhuyan, and N Kotiswar Singh observed that the ground has been hosting the Ramlila for nearly a century. However, it asked the High Court to impress upon the district administration to identify another site for future celebrations.
The Court directed that “all stakeholders be heard before taking a decision” and stressed that the playground should primarily serve students. With these observations, the Court disposed of the Special Leave Petition filed by Shree Nagar Ramlila Mahotsav.
Dispute Over Use Of School Ground
The High Court had earlier passed an interim order on a PIL claiming that the school premises were being converted into a permanent venue for religious functions. The petitioner alleged that:
- Interlocking cement tiles were laid to prepare the ground for events,
- The main school gate was renamed “Sita Ram Gate”,
- Swings and decorative structures were installed.
- The plea argued that the 18-day-long Ramlila would disrupt teaching and deprive children of their playground.
State authorities, however, defended the arrangements. They said the tiles were laid to prevent waterlogging, and that the Ramlila—a tradition for over 100 years—was confined to 7–10 pm without hampering classes. But the High Court was not satisfied, remarking:
“Despite the huge stage being set up in the playground, the claim that teaching activities are not affected is apparently contrary to the fact situation.”
Organisers Object To Not Being Heard
Before the Supreme Court, the festival organisers contended that they had not been made a party to the case in the High Court and were not heard before the order was passed.
During the hearing, Justice Surya Kant questioned the petitioner’s motives, “What happened that you suddenly went to the High Court? If this Ramlila has been taking place since last 100 years… what prevented you from going in advance and asking the administration to make arrangements? You are not the student or parent… you are not the owner of property… you could file a PIL but what prevented you?”
At the same time, Justice Kant clarified that the Court was not approving permanent use of the school ground for such events.
Read More: Supreme Court, Delhi High Court, States High Court, International
