TN Government Tells HC Jain Ownership of Thirupparankundram Pillar
The Tamil Nadu government on Tuesday informed the Madras High Court that a disputed stone pillar located at the Thirupparankundram hill in Madurai district belongs to the Jain community and not to Hindus, amid an ongoing legal row over religious ownership and heritage claims at the site.
The submission was made during the hearing of a petition seeking protection and restoration of what the petitioner claimed was a Hindu religious structure. The state government, however, told the court that historical and archaeological records indicate the pillar is associated with ancient Jain presence in the region.
Archaeological and Historical Records Cited
The government stated that expert opinions and records maintained by the Archaeology Department classify the pillar as a Jain relic. Officials said Thirupparankundram hill has historically been a shared religious landscape, with evidence of Jain, Hindu, and Islamic associations across different periods.
According to the state, the specific pillar in question does not form part of any Hindu temple structure and cannot be claimed as such without supporting historical proof. The government argued that misidentification of heritage structures could lead to unnecessary communal disputes.
Court Seeks Detailed Examination
The Madras High Court noted the submissions and indicated that the issue involves sensitive questions of history, faith, and archaeology. The court said it would examine documentary evidence, expert reports, and past records before arriving at any conclusion.
The bench also stressed the need to maintain public order and communal harmony while adjudicating disputes involving religious sites and historical monuments.
Matter to Be Heard Further
The court adjourned the matter for further hearing, directing all parties to file additional documents supporting their claims. Until a final decision is taken, the existing status of the disputed structure is expected to be maintained.
