Karnataka HC Issues Interim Order Halting Chamundeshwari Temple Work, Seeks Affidavit on Rs 47 Crore Spend
Karnataka HC stops Mysuru temple construction amid the royal family's legal challenge against the government.
The Karnataka High Court has directed the state government to immediately halt all construction activities at the premises of the Chamundeshwari Temple in Mysuru through an interim order. The directive came during the hearing of a petition filed by Pramoda Devi Wadiyar, who has challenged the Shree Chamundeshwari Kshetra Development Authority Act before the court.
Justice Sachin Shankar Magadum, while issuing the order, clearly stated that no construction activity of any kind should continue at the disputed temple site. The court instructed the Deputy Commissioner of Mysuru to ensure strict and immediate compliance, emphasising that the halt applies to all ongoing works without exception. The bench also observed that despite earlier directions, construction activity had reportedly continued, which raised concerns and led to stronger intervention by the court.
The High Court further directed the Deputy Commissioner to file a detailed affidavit within two weeks, providing a complete account of the funds utilised for the project. This includes the ₹47 crore released by the Central Government under the PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive) scheme. The court has sought details on the nature of works carried out, the amounts spent, and the current stage of the project, indicating a focus on transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
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The petition filed by Pramoda Devi Wadiyar raises concerns about the impact of the development works on the heritage and sanctity of the temple, which holds significant cultural and religious importance. By challenging the legal validity of the development authority and the ongoing construction, the petitioner has brought the issue under judicial scrutiny. With this interim order, the High Court has effectively paused all development activities at the site until further hearings, which are expected to take place after the submission of the affidavit.
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