Kerala High Court Directs Strict Compliance with Prohibition on Mass Drills and Weaponry Practices by RSS

Cochin: Kerala High Court has directed the Travancore Devaswom Commissioner and the Administrative Officer of Sree Sarkara Devi Temple in Thiruvananthapuram to ensure strict compliance with the prohibition on mass drills and weaponry practices within the temple premises. 

The issue was raised by the devotees and nearby residents of the temple. The petitioners were concerned about the illegal encroachment and use of temple premises for mass drills and weaponry training by certain individuals claiming to be members of Rashtriya Swayam Sevak Sangh (RSS). SHO of the Chirayinkeezhu Police Station, after conducting the enquiry found the facts of the complaint to be true.  

The court issued this directive following a plea alleging that members of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) were conducting such activities illegally, causing distress to devotees and pilgrims, especially women and children. 

The petitioners claimed that the respondents engaged in these activities without authorization and used tobacco products, affecting temple cleanliness and sanctity. Loud slogans during mass drills also disrupted the temple”s peaceful atmosphere despite two circulars issued to cease such actions. 

The court, after reviewing relevant laws, emphasized that temple premises should not be used for such activities and directed strict compliance with the circulars issued by the Devaswom Commissioner. 

In response, alleged RSS members argued that these allegations were politically motivated, and they were not engaged in any such activities in the vicinities of the temple. 

This verdict highlights the significance of preserving the sanctity of religious premises and using them solely for religious rituals and worship.