Kerala High Court Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of 'Widespread Filth' at Chottanikkara Temple, Summons Officials - 2025-09-19

Kerala High Court Intervenes Over Poor Sanitation at Chottanikkara Temple, Summons Key Officials

Ernakulam: The Kerala High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of the deplorable sanitary conditions at the renowned Chottanikkara Temple, citing "widespread filth and decay" within the premises. A Division Bench comprising Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V and Justice K. V. Jayakumar has summoned senior engineering officials from the Cochin Devaswom Board to appear personally and explain the steps taken to rectify the situation.

Case Background

The Court initiated the proceedings (DBP NO. 52 OF 2025) on its own accord after being presented with evidence, including photographs, that depicted a "complete lack of hygiene and sanitation" in crucial areas of the temple, such as the kitchen. The matter was compounded by allegations of staff misconduct, a decline in the quality of offerings (prasad), and a failure of oversight by the vigilance wing.

Court's Observations and Prior Directives

In its order, the Bench noted that this was not a new issue. A communication dated March 11, 2025, from the District Co-ordinator of the Navakeralam Karma Padhathi had previously highlighted several defects during an inspection. Key recommendations from that inspection included:

• Implementing a proper bin system for waste segregation (plastic, paper, organic).
• Installing a water-treatment plant for safe drinking water.
• Setting up an incinerator compliant with Pollution Control Board specifications.

The High Court observed with concern that "several of the directions have not been complied with," leading to the persistence of unsanitary conditions at the major pilgrimage center.

"The photographs produced along with the petition depict widespread filth and decay, including in the kitchen and adjoining areas. The materials reveal a complete lack of hygiene and sanitation," the Court recorded in a previous order.

Impleadment of New Parties and Summons

To ensure effective adjudication and the issuance of enforceable directions, the Court found it necessary to implead additional high-ranking officials as respondents in the case. The newly impleaded parties are:

• Executive Director, Suchitwa Mission
• Executive Engineer, Maramath Wing, Cochin Devaswom Board
• Assistant Engineer, Chottanikkara Devaswom

The Final Order and Its Implications

The Court has directed the Executive Engineer of the Maramath Wing (Cochin Devaswom Board) and the Assistant Engineer of the Chottanikkara Devaswom to be personally present at the next hearing scheduled for September 24, 2025 . They are required to "specifically state before us the steps they have taken to remedy the situation at Chottanikkara."

This order signifies the High Court's firm stance on ensuring that religious institutions are maintained with the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene, holding administrative bodies directly accountable for lapses in their duties. The outcome of the next hearing will be crucial in determining the concrete measures to be implemented to restore the sanctity and cleanliness of the temple premises.