Kerala Devaswom Minister criticises “excessive intervention” by Kerala High Court in temples
Kerala Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan has publicly criticized the Kerala High Court for excessive intervention in temple administration and rituals. He argues that these judicial actions undermine the autonomy of the Devaswom Board and the rights of believers.
Why it matters
This highlights a growing tension between the judiciary and the executive branch regarding the separation of powers and the management of religious institutions in India.
Kerala Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan slammed the Kerala High Court for “excessive interference” in the affairs of the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple and other temples in the State.
Speaking at a public event on Sunday (July 12, 2026), he said that the time has come to rethink whether the court should interfere in all such matters, thus limiting the role of the Devaswom Boards and devotees. Many of the interventions are taking place in a way that undermines the autonomy of the temples and the rights of the believers, he said.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in