sekarreporter1: http://youtube.com/post/UgkxYPJLYiWaCHZXEMRRIhU6JQkffOjiW7JF?si=mIhjWeZFht1evoxK [20/11, 17:27] sekarreporter1: *Baburayanpettai Temple Matter Update* The Baburayanpettai Temple matter was taken up post-lunch today, *20th November 2024* . *Advocate B. Jagannath* appeared as Party in Person. *The Commissioner of HR and CE* participated via *video conference* from *Rameswaram*, while the *Joint Commissioner & Executive Officer* appeared in person. *J. Ravindran*, *Additional Advocate General (AAG)*, represented *SGP Arun Natrajan* of HR and CE.
[20/11, 17:27] sekarreporter1: http://youtube.com/post/UgkxYPJLYiWaCHZXEMRRIhU6JQkffOjiW7JF?si=mIhjWeZFht1evoxK
[20/11, 17:27] sekarreporter1: *Baburayanpettai Temple Matter Update*
The Baburayanpettai Temple matter was taken up post-lunch today, *20th November 2024* . *Advocate B. Jagannath* appeared as Party in Person. *The Commissioner of HR and CE* participated via *video conference* from *Rameswaram*, while the *Joint Commissioner & Executive Officer* appeared in person. *J. Ravindran*, *Additional Advocate General (AAG)*, represented *SGP Arun Natrajan* of HR and CE.
Key Points from the Hearing:
*AAG’s Assurance:*
The AAG stated that the Respondent Department would undertake a thorough review and start the necessary work within one week. This process will include taking photographs and providing a clear roadmap for the restoration and maintenance of the temple.
*Court’s Disappointment:*
The Learned First Division Bench expressed profound disappointment over the negligent manner in which HR and CE have handled the matter, pointing out that contempt has been pending for 2 years, and the main issue was disposed nearly 5 years ago.
*Oral Observations by the Court:*
*Dismissal and Promotion:* The Court warned that if the work does not commence immediately, the Commissioner could be dismissed and the Joint Commissioner may not receive a promotion permanently.
*Temple Condition:* The Court highlighted the dilapidated condition of the temple tank and Vasanta Mandapam, noting the overgrown vegetation in the Main Gopuram, which needs to be removed.
*Preservation Examples:* The Court cited well-preserved sites such as Stonehenge in Britain and Mount Abu in Rajasthan, illustrating the potential for cultural and economic benefits from proper maintenance.
*Heritage Responsibility:* Emphasis was placed on the Vijaya Varadaraja Perumal Temple being an ancient heritage monument. The Court stressed that its preservation is a national duty, involving not just the authorities but also the general public.
*Historical Efforts:* The Court acknowledged the historical efforts of kings in creating an economic ecosystem around temples to provide employment and sustain the population, highlighting the importance of such monuments in heritage and culture.
*Department’s Duty:* The Court criticized the Respondent Department’s lack of initiative in safeguarding and maintaining national heritage sites, urging the Joint Commissioner or Commissioner to personally inspect and start the restoration work immediately.
*Petitioner’s Role:* The Petitioner, B. Jagannath, was permitted to take dated photographs of the temple and submit them to the Court. The Court expressed trust in the AAG but not in the government officials.
*Immediate Action:* The Court mandated that all vegetation be removed immediately and that the Commissioner ensure the commencement of restoration work. The Commissioner is required to file a Status Report by November 28, 2024.
*The contempt hearing is also scheduled for November 29 2024.*
