Tue Feb 03 06:59:31 UTC 2026: ### Madurai Officials Apologize in Contempt Case Over Karthigai Deepam Lighting

The Story:
Madurai Collector K.J. Praveen Kumar, along with other officials including Commissioner of Madurai City Police J. Loganathan, tendered an unconditional apology to the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court following contempt of judiciary proceedings. The proceedings stem from prohibitory orders issued on December 3, 2025, regarding the lighting of Karthigai Deepam at a pillar on Thirupparankundram hills. The court is scrutinizing whether these orders were a deliberate attempt to undermine previous court rulings.

The officials claimed the orders were issued to maintain law and order due to an influx of Hindu outfits, based on inputs received at the time. However, Justice G.R. Swaminathan questioned the intent behind the orders and granted the Collector additional time to explain. Contempt proceedings against the Collector have been split and will be heard on March 2.

Key Points:

  • Madurai Collector K.J. Praveen Kumar, Commissioner of Police J. Loganathan, Executive Officer Yagna Narayanan, and Deputy Commissioner of Police A.G. Inigo Divyan tendered unconditional apologies.
  • The prohibitory orders were issued on December 3, 2025, under Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023, concerning the lighting of Karthigai Deepam at Thirupparankundram hills.
  • Officials claimed the orders were to maintain law and order due to a potential influx of Hindu outfits.
  • Justice G.R. Swaminathan expressed skepticism regarding the intention behind the prohibitory orders and whether they were meant to frustrate a prior court order.
  • The Collector was given time until March 2 to file an additional affidavit.
  • The Chief Secretary N. Muruganandam filed an affidavit on record.

Key Takeaways:

  • The judiciary is taking a firm stance against perceived defiance of its orders by government officials.
  • The invocation of Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023, highlights the legal framework being used to manage potentially sensitive religious gatherings.
  • The incident underscores the tensions that can arise when religious practices intersect with law and order concerns.
  • The splitting of the contempt proceedings against the Collector suggests the court views his role as potentially more culpable.

Impact Analysis:

This event has significant implications for the relationship between the judiciary and the executive branch in Tamil Nadu. The court’s assertive approach could deter future attempts by officials to circumvent judicial orders, even under the guise of maintaining law and order. This case will likely set a precedent for how similar situations are handled, emphasizing accountability and adherence to court directives. The long-term impact includes a likely increase in scrutiny of government actions pertaining to religious events and potential adjustments in how law enforcement manages such gatherings.

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