( 1 ) THIS is a petition under Article 226 of the Constitution of India by the Mahant, Sri Hathiramji Mutt, Tirupati, for a declaration that the Madras Hindu Religious Endowments Act of 1923, Madras Act I of 1925. Madras Act II of 1927, Madras Act XIX of 1933, Madras Act XIX of 1951 and Andhra Act VII of 1954, in so far as they are inconsistent with the Constitution, are ultra vires and inoperative. In order to appreciate the contentions urged in support of this petition, it is useful to notice the historical background of the case.

( 2 ) ON a range of hills called Tirumali hills, the ancient and the famous shrine of Lord Venkatesh-wara is situate, This was founded in the hoary past and it is not known when exactly it came into existence. Originally the Temple seems to have been under the management of the local rulers for the time being. After the advent of the British, the management was with the East India Company. After the Regulation, VII of 1817, was passed, the administration of all the Temples in the State was vested in the Board of Revenue. The Board used to exercise control over these institutions through the Collectors of the various districts and the l