JUDGMENT

(Prayer: Writ Petition filed under Article 226 of the Constitution of India, praying this Court to issue a Writ of Mandamus, directing the respondents to consider the petitioner's representation dated 09.08.2022 and give permission to conduct pongal festival events for two days from 19.08.2022 to 20.08.2022 in Sri Rajakalai Amman Temple and Pattathu Amman Temple in Valayapatti Village, Thiruchuzhi Taluk, Virudhunagar District.)

1. Heard the learned counsel on either side.

2. The prayer in the writ petition is for directing the authorities to permit the villagers in question to conduct the petition mentioned temple festival. It is seen that on account of non-cooperation from the temple priest, the issue is hanging fire.

3. I wanted to know from the counsel on either side if there is any legal provision which mandates that the villagers must obtain prior permission for conducting their age old temple festivals. My attention was not drawn to any specific provision as such.

4. The Constitution of India confers certain fundamental rights. Article 19(1)(b) states that all citizens shall have the right to assemble peaceably and without arms. Article 25 (1) states that subject to publi