India News | Carrying of Dharmapuram Math Pontiff by People Banned

Mayiladuthurai (TN) May 2 (PTI) Revenue authorities here have restricted the carrying of the pontiff of Dharmapuram Aadheenam - an ancient Saivite monastic institution in the district - by people during an annual event this month-end, as this was against human dignity.

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Confirming that the order to restrict carrying the pontiff was issued on Monday in consultation with senior officials and under the guidance of the district administration, a senior Revenue official said the order was issued invoking the provisions of Article 23 of the Constitution of India.

During the annual Pattina Pravesam procession, the pontiff of the Aadheenam, founded in the 16th century, is carried on a decorated palanquin and he is greeted by his devotees. This has been a custom for ages.

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Recently, certain fringe elements objected to persons carrying the pontiff during the procession. The Revenue authorities decided to enforce a ban to avert any break in law and order in the district, it was said.

Asked if the order would not amount to interfering with the religious practices of the ancient institution, the senior Revenue official told PTI that that the Aadheenam was free to approach the court. "But Article 23 prohibits traffic in humanbeings and forced labour," the official said. PTI

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)