Chennai, 22 December (H.S.): The protest broke out after the Thirumangalam Revenue Divisional Officer granted permission for the festival activities, which are scheduled to continue until January 6, 2026. The demonstrators demanded that the Karthigai Deepam be lit at the pillar near the dargah in accordance with a previous court order, leading to a standoff at the site.

The situation remains sensitive following the recent death of a forty year old man named Poornachandran, who reportedly died by self immolation near a police booth. Before the extreme step, the deceased had circulated a voice message expressing his anguish over the ceremonial lamp not being lit despite a Madras High Court directive.

His family members stated that he was a deeply spiritual individual who was moved by the legal dispute surrounding the hill. Authorities confirmed that a case has been registered at the Tallakulam police station and further investigations are currently underway to determine the exact circumstances of the tragedy.

A senior police official noted that while the Madras High Court had initially directed the lighting of the lamp, the state government challenged the decision citing potential law and order concerns. Meanwhile, preparations for the Santhanakoodu chariot procession have continued with traditional rituals.

The Revenue Divisional Officer and police personnel are monitoring the area closely to prevent any further untoward incidents while balancing the religious sentiments of the different communities involved in the dispute.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary