JUDGMENT

Sen, J.-The point that falls for consideration in this case is whether the right of the temple attendants to get a portion of the offerings made to the deity in a temple is a religious right or the manner of collecting and getting a share of the offerings is a religious rite of the temple. The answer must be in the negative in both the cases. Collection and distribution of monies start after the devotees had done their worship and made their offerings to the deity. Offerings of fruit, flower and money are made to the deity by the devotees. This is done as a token of devotion of the pilgrims. But after the worship by the devotees is over, sweeping, collection and distribution of a portion of offerings to the temple staff are not parts of any religious exercise. The manner of collection and distribution of a portion of the offerings among the temple staff may have a history of long usage but such usage cannot be part of religious practice or a religious right.

2. This case has been brought by a group of temple attendants called "Sevaks" contending that they are entitled to a share out of the collections of the offerings made by the devotees inside the Jagannath Temple at Puri.