Prohibit devotees from taking phones in temples: Madras HC to Tamil Nadu govt

The Madurai bench of Madras High Court directed the Tamil Nadu government to prohibit devotees from taking cell phones inside temples in the state. The decision was taken on Friday, in order to "maintain the purity and sanctity" inside temple premises.

The court directed authorities to implement the conditions. The HR and CE department of the Tamil Nadu government has been directed to comply with the directions in all the temples of the state to maintain purity and sanctity.

The Madurai bench observed that Tiruchendur temple authorities have already taken all effective measures for a ban on mobile phones, and urged for a decent dress code inside the premises of the Tiruchendur temple.

From November 14, Tiruchendur temple authorities said that the devotees and people working in the temple are not allowed to take cell phones inside the temple.

The executive officer of Tiruchendur temple said that "steps have been taken to create a security counter for depositing cellphones and issue tokens for the same. "

"Notice boards warning, not to take cellphones in and if cellphones are found in possession inside the temple, it shall be seized and will not be returned and this information is also announced in public address system," the officer said.

"Devotees who come to the temple should wear attire that protects our tradition and culture and these information boards are placed in the temple," the executive officer of Tiruchendur temple added.