Tamil Nadu Congress Chief Barred from Kancheepuram Temple Ritual, Sparks Political Debate
In a developing controversy, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) president K Selvaperunthagai was stopped from participating in a religious ritual at the historic Kancheepuram temple, reportedly by local authorities and temple officials. The incident has sparked a political and social debate about caste, access, and religious inclusivity in the state.
According to reports, Selvaperunthagai had arrived at the temple to take part in a ritual ceremony as part of a scheduled public visit. However, temple staff allegedly informed him that he would not be permitted to enter the sanctum or take part in the traditional offerings, citing customary restrictions and procedural reasons.
Leader Responds, Calls It Discriminatory
K Selvaperunthagai, a vocal advocate for Dalit rights and social justice, condemned the move as discriminatory and regressive. He claimed that being prevented from participating in the ritual was an affront to constitutional rights and religious equality.
He later addressed the media, stating:
“Temples are public institutions. No citizen should be denied participation in religious rituals based on caste, creed, or political affiliation.”
The Congress leader demanded an official explanation and called on the Tamil Nadu government and Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department to investigate the matter.
Political and Social Reactions
The incident has triggered responses from various quarters. While some religious groups defended the temple’s traditional practices, political leaders across parties expressed concern about the optics and message it sends in a modern, democratic society.
Social justice organizations and civil rights activists have also weighed in, stating that restricting access to religious spaces undermines the principle of equality guaranteed by the Constitution.
The HR&CE Department has yet to issue a formal clarification.
✅ FAQs
Q1: Who was stopped from participating in the Kancheepuram temple ritual?
A: Tamil Nadu Congress chief K Selvaperunthagai was stopped from taking part in the ritual.
Q2: Why was he stopped from entering the temple sanctum?
A: Temple authorities cited traditional customs and procedural limitations, though critics allege caste-based discrimination.
Q3: What was Selvaperunthagai’s response?
A: He condemned the move as discriminatory and called for a government inquiry into the incident.
Q4: Has the Tamil Nadu government responded?
A: As of now, the HR&CE Department has not released an official statement.
Q5: Why is this incident significant?
A: It highlights ongoing tensions around temple access, caste, and religious equality in Tamil Nadu, especially involving public figures and politicians.
Published : On 7th July
Published : Pankaj
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