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The Kerala High Court has rejected a writ petition that sought action against two Christian priests who attended a function at a temple in Pathanamthitta district while wearing their religious attire. The court emphasized that laws should not be misused to create discord among communities.

This petition was initiated by a devotee who claimed that the priests' presence at the Sree Parthasarathy Temple in Adoor in 2023 breached the 1965 Kerala Hindu Place of Public Worship Authorisation of Entry Act, which limits non-Hindus from entering temples.

The temple is managed by the state-operated Travancore Devaswom Board.

The petitioner referenced Rule 3(a) of the Kerala Hindu Places of Public Worship Authorisation of Entry Rules, which prohibits non-Hindus from temple entry.

However, the court pointed out that the Act itself does not impose such a restriction; the limitation exists solely within the Rules.

On January 30, the bench comprising Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan and KV Jayakumar dismissed the petition, stating that it is the responsibility of the state government to consider whether Rule 3(a) needs to be reviewed or amended to align with legislative intent and constitutional principles.

The court also highlighted that the priests were permitted entry as guests and did not assert a right to enter, thus it could not be viewed as a breach of the Act or the Rules, according to legal news sources.

Furthermore, the court remarked that laws should adapt to the evolving needs and realities of society.

“The primary aim of law is to ensure social harmony and enhance the welfare of citizens,” the bench stated. “As society progresses and becomes more inclusive, legal provisions must be interpreted to uphold constitutional values and foster social unity.”

They added, “Laws, rules, and regulations should not serve as tools for inciting discord among different religions, castes, or communities. Instead, the legal framework should act as a cohesive force that encourages mutual respect and coexistence.”