Breaking news from Kerala: The High Court has issued a clarion call to the Pinarayi Vijayan government, urging the immediate framing of a law to defend temple properties against illegal seizures and neglect. The order underscores a crisis that has simmered for years, now demanding urgent resolution.
Key facts from the hearing paint a grim picture—hundreds of cases of land grabbing reported across 14 districts, with Devaswom Boards losing track of nearly 40% of their holdings. The court pulled no punches, terming it a ‘betrayal of trust’ by institutions meant to safeguard these pious endowments.
Proposed features of the law include blockchain-based land registries for transparency, mobile enforcement units, and integration with revenue departments for seamless monitoring. The judges also flagged corruption within boards, recommending independent oversight.
The case originated from a PIL highlighting encroachments near iconic shrines like Guruvayur and Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Devotee groups have mobilized support, organizing awareness campaigns to pressure lawmakers.
In its concluding observations, the court warned of contempt proceedings if deadlines slip, adding teeth to its directive. The government’s roadmap includes stakeholder consultations with temple authorities and legal experts.
This judicial masterstroke arrives at a pivotal time, as Kerala navigates tensions between development needs and heritage protection. Success here could bolster faith in institutions and unlock economic potential from temple revenues, benefiting generations ahead.