Fri Oct 10 20:12:20 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text:

**Madurai Court Upholds Restrictions on Animal Sacrifice and Non-Vegetarian Food on Tirupparankundram Hillock**

**Madurai, India – October 11, 2025** – The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has ruled to continue restrictions on animal sacrifice and the consumption of non-vegetarian food on the Tirupparankundram hillock, pending a decision by a competent civil court. The ruling comes after a split verdict by a Division Bench, requiring Justice R. Vijayakumar to act as the tie-breaking judge.

Justice Vijayakumar concurred with Justice S. Srimathy’s view, referencing a 1920 civil court judgment and revenue records that identify the hillock as “Tirupparankundram,” contradicting claims it should be called “Sikandar Malai.” He also cited Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) gazette notifications from 1908 and 1923, which recognize the presence of the Sikandar Badusha Dargah while referring to the hillock as Tirupparankundram.

The court acknowledged the presence of both the Dargah and Hindu temples (Subramaniaswamy Temple and Kasi Vishwanathar Temple) on the hill. Justice Vijayakumar emphasized that ASI regulations prohibit animal sacrifice and food consumption on the protected monument. He also noted that animal sacrifice would impinge on the religious practices of the Hindu community, who own the traditional steps to Nellithoppu area.

While prayers at Nellithoppu are permitted for Muslims during Ramzan and Bakrid, the court stipulated that the pathways to the temples must not be obstructed, and the traditional steps must not be defiled. Justice Vijayakumar concurred with Justice J. Nisha Banu in dismissing a petition seeking to ban prayers at Nellithoppu altogether, acknowledging the established rights of the parties involved.

The ruling seeks to maintain communal harmony while preserving the historical and religious significance of the Tirupparankundram hillock. The case highlights the complexities of balancing religious practices and preserving protected heritage sites.

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