A day before Hindu Munnani’s planned protest against demands from certain Muslim groups to allow animal sacrifice at the Sikandar Dargah, located on Tiruparankundram Hill in Madurai, the district administration has enforced Section 144 of the CrPC. This order prohibits public demonstrations and protests, warning of strict action against violators.
Section 144 Imposed In this state before Hindu Munnani’s Protest
Religious Dispute Over Tiruparankundram Hill
Tiruparankundram Hill is revered as one of the six abodes of Lord Muruga in Tamil Nadu. According to a Privy Council judgment, the hill legally belongs to the Murugan temple. Hindus hold the belief that no blood should be spilled on the sacred hill, making the demand for animal sacrifice a contentious issue.
IUML MP Claims Dargah as Waqf Property
The controversy escalated following the visit of K. Navas Kani, the IUML MP from Ramanathapuram, who claimed that the Sikandar Dargah is Waqf property. He also posted images of people consuming non-vegetarian food on the hill, asserting that there was no official restriction on eating cooked meat, as confirmed by the police commissioner.
Green Paint on Jain Caves Sparks Concerns
Adding to the tensions, a few ancient Jain caves on the hill were discovered to have been painted green. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has since begun work to remove the paint and restore the site.
Hindu Munnani Vows to Defy Ban and Proceed with Protest
Despite the restrictions, Hindu Munnani has hinted that it may go ahead with its protest, setting the stage for potential confrontations. With religious sentiments running high on both sides, authorities remain on high alert to prevent any escalation of tensions in the region.