The protest follows a petition filed by local resident Rama Ravikumar, who had sought permission to light the ceremonial lamp on the pillar. Although the Bench had initially granted permission, the state government moved the Supreme Court in appeal, and the police subsequently denied permission for the ritual.
After the police refused permission for a public hunger strike in support of lighting the lamp, the Madurai Bench on Friday intervened and allowed the protest to be held, subject to rigid conditions.
As per the court order, only 50 people were permitted to participate in the hunger strike, which could be held only from 9 am to 5 pm. The court further directed that no slogans should be raised during the protest, allowing only religious chants. The court added that no provocative slogans against any individual or group should be permitted.
More than 50 police personnel were deployed in the Thirupparankundram area on Saturday as part of the heightened security arrangements. Organisers strictly instructed all participants, including those affiliated with political parties, to attend the protest without displaying any party symbol or flag. (TNIE)
For more details: Navamalayalam.com