N. Kirubakaran, J.

These writ petitions raise a point with regard to Swayambu lingam (Manifestation of Lord Shiva swaroopam) whether the Swaymabu lingam can be replaced in a different place rather than from the present place. It is stated that man is a creation of God and it is also being said that God is made by man. The faith of God, the scientist say is embedded in the genes of the men.

2. As the matter relates to faith in religion and also with regard to Swayambu Linga (Manisfestation of Lord Shiva by himself), without giving any personal opinion, the Court is constrained to consider the issue as it was called upon to do so legally.

3. The facts of the case are as follows:

Both W.P.Nos.30779 of 2008 and 2670 of 2009 are public interest litigations praying for a writ of mandamus forbearing the respondents from removing, demolishing Istalingeswarar temple in the existing place inside the Government Estate, Chennai 600 002. Both petitioners (hereinafter referred as petitioner) stated in their writ petitions that "Swaymbu lingam" ( Manifestation of Lord Shiva swaroopam) was identified in the year 1600 in the lands which is now known as Government Estate, Chennai-600 002.

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