Rules Can’t be Used to Foment Disharmony: Kerala HC Dismisses Plea Against Christian Priests’ Temple Entry

The Kerala High Court dismissed a petition seeking action against Christian priests who entered a Hindu temple, holding that the rules relied upon cannot be applied to foment communal disharmony.

The Court observed that there was no legal basis to restrict entry on the ground of religion where there was no allegation of disorder or breach of public peace.

It emphasised that regulatory provisions cannot be interpreted to promote exclusion or discrimination among faiths.

Highlighting constitutional values of equality and secularism, the Court rejected the contention that the priests’ temple entry warranted punitive action or administrative interference.