The Supreme Court of India on Friday refused to entertain a petition challenging legislation that gives the Tamil Nadu state government control over Hindu temples, the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act of 1959 (HRCEA). The bench, led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, directed the petitioners to approach the High Court, emphasizing its competence to handle such matters.

The petitioners, which included the Sarayu Foundation Public Charitable Trust, sought to strike down the act in its entirety. The petition was filed under Article 32 of the Indian Constitution, claiming that the HRCEA violates fundamental rights given under Articles 21, 25 and 26, which pertain to the right to life, freedom of religion and freedom to manage religious affairs respectively.

The HRCEA grants the Tamil Nadu government extensive control over the administration of Hindu temples and religious endowments. This includes the appointment of key officials and trustees, as well as oversight of temple finances and assets. The act has been controversial for allowing government intervention in religious matters, which some argue undermines the autonomy of Hindu religious institutions.

Anand Prasad, one of the advocates representing the petitioners, elaborated on the constitutional implications of the HRCEA in an interview with Sangam Talks. He stated that Articles 25 and 26 safeguard the right to religion and the management of religious institutions and assert that state intervention should be limited to exceptional circumstances involving public health or morality. He emphasized that the state lacks the expertise to interfere in religious matters and should respect individual beliefs and religious practices.

The Supreme Court, however, declined to delve into the merits of the case. This decision effectively directs the petitioners to seek recourse at the High Court, where the case will be examined in detail. The High Court is expected to consider the constitutional arguments presented and determine whether the HRCEA stands in violation of fundamental rights.