Thu Jun 12 15:53:20 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the text:

**Summary:**

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has ordered the Dindigul District Administration to respond to a public interest litigation (PIL) regarding the enforcement of a 2018 government order banning single-use plastics in Palani taluk, Dindigul district. The petitioner claims that the ban is being widely ignored, especially around the Sri Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple, leading to environmental pollution and health concerns. Despite a 2019 notification reinforcing the ban, single-use plastics are still being produced, sold, and used. The court has adjourned the hearing for two weeks.

**News Article:**

**Madras High Court Demands Action on Plastic Ban in Dindigul District**

**MADURAI, June 12, 2025** – The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has issued a notice to the Dindigul District Administration, ordering them to respond to a public interest litigation (PIL) regarding the blatant disregard of a 2018 government order banning single-use plastics. The petition, filed by K. Purushothaman of Palani, alleges that the ban is routinely flouted in Palani taluk, particularly around the heavily visited Sri Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple.

Purushothaman claims that the continued use of banned items like plastic covers, cups, sheets, and straws is causing significant environmental pollution and posing a threat to public health. He asserts that despite the 2018 G.O. and a subsequent 2019 notification prohibiting the manufacture, sale, and use of these plastics, authorities have failed to enforce the ban effectively.

“Lakhs of people visit the temple, and the widespread use and discarding of single-use plastics along the roadside is a major problem,” Purushothaman stated in his petition. He argues that the district administration has not taken sufficient action against manufacturers, vendors, and users of these prohibited items.

A Division Bench of Justices S.M. Subramaniam and A.D. Maria Clete has requested a response from the Dindigul District Administration within two weeks. The court will then determine further action based on the Administration’s response. The case highlights the ongoing challenge of enforcing environmental regulations and the impact of plastic pollution on local communities and ecosystems.

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