Ban on RSS weapon training at Sree Sarakara Devi Temple premises in Kerala

Kochi: The Kerala High Court has issued a directive prohibiting any kind of weapon training and mass drills in the temple premises of Sree Sarakara Devi Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, in response to a petition filed against weapon training by the RSS.

The court emphasised the importance of preserving the sanctity of temple premises from non-religious activities like weapon training.

Back in May, the Travancore Devaswom Board had already issued a circular prohibiting the RSS from organizing mass drills and other non-religious activities within temple premises.

A Division Bench of Justices Anil K Narendran and PG Ajithkumar ruled that any activities unrelated to temple worship were illegal. They emphasized the fundamental right to faith and the importance of maintaining a peaceful environment within the temple.

Administrative officers and temple management committees were tasked with preventing actions that could cause difficulties for believers. The court particularly prohibited mass drills and weapons training within temple premises, with the temple's administrative officer responsible for rigorous enforcement.

Law enforcement agencies were urged to provide necessary assistance in upholding this decision, emphasizing the separation of politics from temple rituals and faith. The court's directive aimed to safeguard temple property from unauthorized access.

The petitioners who approached the High Court cited the distress and inconvenience faced by pilgrims, particularly women and children, due to the disruptive activities conducted at the temple despite clear circulars from the Travancore Devaswom Board and the temple's administrative officer.

The court's decision seeks to maintain the sacredness and tranquillity of the temple environment, ensuring a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere for devotees.