ORDER :- A question of general importance has arisen in this writ petition. The petitioner is challenging the vires of Rule 4-A of the Rules framed by the Government of Tamil Nadu in exercise of their power under Section 8 of the Tamil Nadu Temple Entry Authorisation Act (Act V of 1947) hereinafter called the Temple Entry Act. The petitioner as a Hindu claims that the Hindu temples in the State are maintained in accordance with certain norms as set out in the Agamas and in strict conformity with the ancient customs and practices. He is a permanent resident of Tulasi Babu Mutt at Rameswaram and he is a Matadipati, besides being a regular worshipper of Sri Ramanathaswami temple at Rameshwaram. He is aggrieved by the induction of Rule 4-A by the State Government which was published in the Fort St. George Gazette dated 28-1-970. Until January, 1970, the Rules did not contemplate non-Hindus to enter or offer worship in a temple or use the waters of any sacred tank, well, spring or any sacred places including a hill or hillock, street, or pathway, which is requisite for obtaining access to the temple. This is contained in the old Rule 3 (a) of the Rules framed under the Temple Entry Act.

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