Petition Seeks Interim Relief Over Closures of Sacred Sites in Chhattisgarh

Among the relief sought by the petitioners is an interim order to reopen religious venues that were shut down under the 2026 Religious Freedom Rules. The petitioners assert that the government and police have used vague provisions to close temples, mosques, and other places of worship without proper justification.

Harshmandar Rastogi argued that such actions violate the right to freedom of religion and discriminate against specific communities. He requested the court to issue protective orders preventing further arbitrary closures and to direct the authorities to ensure the safety of individuals who choose to convert.

The bench listened to the arguments and, while deferring a final decision on the merits, instructed the state to file its response on the interim applications within 21 days. The court emphasized that any restriction on religious practice must be narrowly tailored and backed by clear legislative intent.

If the state fails to comply, the petitioners warned that the court may impose stricter directives to safeguard constitutional freedoms.