Courts bound to protect interest of deities: Madras HC

High Court observes thus while dismissing a writ petition that sought the perpetual continuation of lease of a temple property

Temple properties are owned by deities, considered a perpetual minor as per law. A High Court, being the custodian of such minors, is bound to protect the interest of the deities and prevent attempts to squat over the properties by misusing the litigative process, the Madras High Court has said.

Justice S.M. Subramaniam made the observations while dismissing a writ petition filed by a nonagenarian who was in occupation of Coimbatore Maagaliamman temple property since 1960 and wanted the lease to continue perpetually for his son, who was assisting him now in conducting business at the property.

After finding that the temple administration was entitled to lease out properties only for a period of five years and any extension beyond that required an approval from the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Commissioner, the judge said the petitioner had not produced such approval.