Raja Vijayaraghavan V, J.

The report submitted by the Ombudsman pertains to two complaints, namely Complaint Nos. 168/2020 and 168A/2020, filed by Sri. V. Manoj. The complaints relate to the Chittoor Pazhayannurkavu Temple and the renovation works carried out by the Temple Advisory Committee. The Ombudsman has noted the following lapses:

(i) The Devaswom Officer, Sri. Suresh, who was functioning in his capacity as an ex-officio member, committed default by failing to issue appropriate directions;

(ii) Separate cash books were not maintained by the Temple Advisory Committee;

(iii) Permission was not obtained from the Thanthri and the Board for conducting “Chanthabhishekam” and for the installation of the idol.

2. The Ombudsman further noted that, based on the Vigilance report and the enquiry conducted by the Board, explanations were called for from the Temple Advisory Committee. After considering the same, the Board passed an order dated 24.05.2022 condoning the actions of the Temple Advisory Committee and the Devaswom Officer and issued a warning directing them not to repeat such lapses in future. The Ombudsman has placed the matter before this Court for appropriate orders.

3. From the r