Tamil Nadu Temples Mobile Phone Ban: Devotees Barred From Carrying Phones From September 1
The Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department has issued a comprehensive directive banning devotees from carrying mobile phones into all major temples across the state, effective September 1, 2026.
The Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department has issued a comprehensive directive banning devotees from carrying mobile phones into all major temples across the state, effective September 1, 2026. The administrative order aims to preserve the spiritual atmosphere, maintain traditional decorum, and safeguard temple sanctity following a rise in unauthorized photography, social media video filming, and selfie-taking on premises.
Under the new operational guidelines issued by the HR&CE Commissioner, temple authorities have been granted 20 days to establish secure mobile phone storage facilities. These deposit counters will be set up near temple entrances, main premises, or existing footwear counters. A standardized safe-custody fee of ₹5 per device will be collected, with receipts generated through the state's Integrated Temple Management System (ITMS). The facilities will be monitored by dedicated personnel, volunteers, and CCTV surveillance. Karnataka Mobile Ban: CM Siddaramaiah Govt May Restrict Phones for Under-16s Over Mental Health, Drug Concerns.
The department has instructed temple administrations to display prominent notices informing visitors of the ban and make periodic announcements over public address systems. Local officials have also been directed to deploy staff to monitor compliance, with explicit instructions to take strict action—including lodging police complaints—against individuals who violate the restrictions by capturing unauthorized photos or recording videos inside temple grounds.
In addition to the general mobile ban, the HR&CE Department has tightened protocols surrounding visits by high-profile figures, including political leaders, actors, and other celebrities. Temple administrators must notify the Commissioner’s office at least 24 hours in advance detailing expected arrival times and party sizes. Photography and videography during VIP visits have been strictly prohibited to ensure that dignitary movement does not disrupt the worship or entry of regular devotees. Mobile Phone Banned: Maharashtra's Bansi Gram Panchayat Bans Use of Smartphones for Under 18 Boys and Girls (Watch Video).
The statewide enforcement builds upon previous judicial mandates, notably a December 2022 ruling by the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court. In its judgment, the court directed state authorities to enforce mobile phone bans across Tamil Nadu temples to uphold their purity and security, citing similar successful regulations in major religious sites across India.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 08, 2026 07:30 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
