Court calls for proper management of 409 temples; emphasises provision of essential amenities for pilgrims
The Kerala High Court has held that the Cochin Devaswom Board is duty-bound to ensure basic facilities for devotees and proper management of all temples under its control.
The observation came in a suo motu petition initiated by the High Court based on complaints regarding deficiencies in temple administration and lack of basic amenities for devotees.
The matter concerns temples managed by the Cochin Devaswom Board, a statutory body responsible for administering hundreds of temples in Kerala.
A Division Bench comprising Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V. and Justice K.V. Jayakumar considered the issues relating to infrastructure and management in temples under the Board.
The Court examined complaints highlighting inadequate facilities and lapses in ensuring basic necessities for devotees visiting these temples.
The High Court emphasised that providing essential amenities such as sufficient toilets, safe drinking water, and other basic facilities is a fundamental responsibility of the Devaswom Board.
It expressed concern over the apparent lack of priority given to the needs of devotees despite earlier judicial interventions.
The Bench underscored that proper management of temples is not limited to ritual administration but extends to ensuring a dignified and safe environment for pilgrims.
The Court called for improved and systematic management of all 409 temples under the Cochin Devaswom Board and stressed the need for immediate steps to address infrastructural deficiencies.
It indicated that temple administration must prioritise devotee welfare and maintain minimum standards of hygiene, safety, and accessibility.
The ruling reinforces the accountability of Devaswom Boards in Kerala, highlighting that temple administration includes both religious and welfare responsibilities towards devotees.
It also signals continued judicial scrutiny over temple management and public religious institutions to ensure compliance with basic standards.
