Kerala High Court dismisses petition asking to display saffron flag in Muthupilakkadu Sree Parthasarathy temple [ Kerala, India ]

[ Reported as seen ]

On September 5, 2023, the Kerala High Court dismissed a petition seeking approval to install saffron flags within the Muthupilakkadu Sree Parthasarathy temple premises. Saffron colour takes an important place in the Sanatan Dharma.

Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V had specifically emphasiszed that  utilising sacred temple grounds for political purposes, particularly by displaying flags linked to specific political parties, is impermissible.

In the judgment, the court said, “Temples stand as beacons of spiritual solace and tranquillity, their sanctity and reverence being of paramount importance. Such hallowed spiritual grounds must not be diminished by political manoeuvrings or attempts at one-upmanship. The actions and intentions of the petitioners are clearly at odds with the serene and sacred atmosphere to be maintained in the temple.”

As per 2 people, the “Parthasarathy Bakthajanasamithi” organisation in 2022, with a focus on the temple’s well-being and welfare of its worshippers. They also said that they were continuously being rivalled to display saffron flags on the temple premises during special occasions, and Hindu festivals. The opposing party also had political influence which it used well to stop the display of the saffron flag.

They sought a Court order to compel the police to provide them with protection, preventing any hindrance from the saffron flag being raised in the temple.

The Government Pleader cited a High Court judgment from 2020, wherein the court had instructed the police to eliminate all such installations from temple premises. After evaluating the opposing arguments, the Court ultimately rejected the petition.

“The petitioners have not demonstrated any legitimate authority to conduct temple rituals as they have prayed for. Furthermore, they cannot be allowed to erect flags or festoons in or around the temple, in light of the orders issued by this Court and decision taken by the administrative committee,” the court said in its judgements.

“Bhagwa Dhwaj” or “Kesari Flag,” or the “Saffron Flag” holds religious importance in the in the Hindu Dharma. It symbolises various spiritual and cultural aspects of the Sanatan Dharma. Saffron, representing purity and spirituality, is associated with the sacred fire, a central element of Hindu rituals.

The flag is seen during religious processions, ceremonies, and atop temples, and to signify the presence of the Gods.