The Madras High Court (HC) questioned the practice of VIP darshan in temples and emphasised that all devotees stand equal before God on Friday, sparking a fresh debate over preferential treatment in places of worship.

While hearing a petition seeking the abolition of VIP and special darshan facilities in the temples managed by Tamil Nadu’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department, a division bench made pointed observations about the growing culture of privileged access for politicians and other prominent figures.

“Everyone is equal before God,” rules Madras HC

A bench comprising GR Swaminathan and Justice V Lakshminarayanan heard the matter, expressing concern over arrangements that allegedly allow ministers, legislators and other influential individuals to bypass queues while ordinary devotees wait for long periods.

Questioning the rationale behind such practices, the bench noted that special access should not come at the cost of inconvenience to the general public. The court remarked, “Let not ministers and MLAs think that they can walk into a temple at any time and God will be waiting for them. Why do we need VIP darshan? Everyone is equal before God.”

Notably, the observations have drawn attention to a long-standing issue that has often generated debate among devotees and temple administrators across the country.

State defends current practice

Responding to the court’s concerns, Additional Advocate General PV Balasubramaniam submitted that special darshan arrangements are intended to help manage crowds and reduce congestion within the temple premises.

He further contended that such facilities generate substantial revenue for temples, which can be utilised for maintenance, religious activities and infrastructure development. Moreover, the state also refuted allegations that temple schedules had been altered to accommodate political dignitaries. It addressed claims that the closing time of the Subramaniya Swamy Temple in Thiruparankundaram was delayed during a recent visit by Minister CTR Nirmal Kumar, the government denied any such irregularity.

VHP member filed petition

The petition concerning the matter had been filed by P Chockalingam, president of the North Tamil Nadu unit of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP). He had argued in the plea that principles of Sanatan Dharma do not permit discrimination on the basis of wealth, social standing or caste. He contended that neither Hindu scriptures nor provisions of the HR&CE Act authorise special darshan facilities in exchange for additional payment.

He claimed the practice was introduced primarily as a revenue-generating mechanism and effectively exploits devotees seeking quicker access to temples. Adding to this, he mentioned that such arrangements violate constitutional guarantees of equality and freedom of religion.

After taking note of the state’s submissions and report, the HC granted additional time for filing a detailed counter affidavit and adjourned the matter for six weeks.