Madras HC Directs Officials To Follow Approved Renovation Plan And Protect Idols At Historic Vedanarayana Temple

The petitioner sought a writ of mandamus to stop renovation of the Vedanarayana Temple at Sripuranthan, Ariyalur District, alleging that the work was unscientific and contrary to directions in W.P. No. 574 of 2015.

The respondents stated that the temple had been inspected by the Archaeological Department and that the State Level Expert Committee (SLEC) had approved specified restoration works in January and February 2022.

Renovation commenced after Balalayam in May 2022; at the hearing, the respondents reported that about 60% of the work was complete.

The petitioner expressed satisfaction with the work but requested that the temple’s ancient idols and sculptures be preserved.

The petition invoked the High Court’s jurisdiction under Article 226 of the Constitution of India.

The Court directed that renovation of the historically significant temple be carried out in accordance with the SLEC’s permission and that the authorities ensure the preservation of the idols and temple precincts without structural or other damage.

The respondents placed before the Court the SLEC-approved scope of work and stated that renovation was proceeding pursuant to that approval.

Since the petitioner was satisfied with the work, the Court did not order it stopped.

Given the temple’s age and historical importance, however, it required the authorities to adhere strictly to the SLEC’s approved works and to safeguard the idols and precincts during the remaining renovation.

It directed the authorities to complete the work in strict accordance with the SLEC’s permission dated 4 January 2022 and to ensure that the idols and temple precincts were properly preserved without structural or other damage.

No costs were awarded.