The Madras High Court has issued a decisive mandate to the Tamil Nadu government: evict all illegal occupants from Adinam and monastery lands within the next 12 weeks. This order aims to reclaim valuable properties vital to the state’s rich religious fabric.
Originating from a 2018 public interest litigation by Thiruthondar Trust’s Radhakrishnan, the case spotlighted encroachments on Sengol Adinam’s holdings in Thoothukudi’s Nedungundram area. Properties in neighboring Tirunelveli were also implicated, prompting a broader judicial scrutiny.
In a proactive step, the bench of Justices SM Subramaniam and C. Kumarappan summoned leaders from every Adinam and Matha in the state. This inclusive strategy addresses not just isolated incidents but systemic vulnerabilities in property management.
‘The state bears primary responsibility for securing these endowments,’ the court asserted, rejecting any excuses for delay. Transparent processes and rapid enforcement are now imperative to prevent further losses.
Religious leaders and legal experts view this as a pivotal moment. Long-pending disputes could finally resolve, freeing lands for community use and maintenance of traditions. The ruling reinforces judicial oversight in matters of faith and property rights.
With deadlines looming, district administrations face intense pressure. Coordination between revenue, police, and local bodies will be key to avoiding contempt proceedings. This could mark the beginning of a cleaner, more protected religious landscape in Tamil Nadu.