We want Karthigai deepam to be lit at ‘deepathoon,’ say Thirupparankundram residents

Demanding the Tamil Nadu government to permit lighting of the Karthigai light at the ‘deepathoon’, people in the name of “Thirupparankundram Grama Makkal” observed a day-long fast on Saturday.

Leading the stir, advocate R. Prabhu said that it had been the tradition of the Hindus to celebrate the festival of lights in a joyful manner. By prohibiting the devotees, the government had failed to protect the people of their rights.

The sentiments of the Hindus had been badly hit due to the ‘adamant’ attitude of the government and some officials in the HR&CE, Police and Revenue departments. Only when the light is allowed to be lit on the ‘deepathoon,’ the people would withdraw their stir, they said.

Following the police rejecting permission, the organisers approached the High Court Bench, which heard the case and directed the authorities to provide bandobust for the fast in a peaceful manner.

The court, the organisers said, had given clear directions for them to follow and that they observed the fast in the prescribed spot earmarked by the officials in Thirupparankundram.

The police, led by Assistant Commissioner Sasi Priya, had provided bandobust at the spot.

The fasting members held placards which demanded the officials to immediately withdraw their objections and allow them to light the lamp as per the traditions.

“We sincerely appeal to the government to shun its ego and solve the issue amicably without any further delay,” a woman participant said.