Kerala Devaswom Minister Defends Circular Banning RSS Activities in Temples

In response to recent controversy, Kerala Devaswom Minister K Radhakrishnan defended a circular issued by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) banning RSS activities on temple premises. Radhakrishnan clarified that the circular’s intention was not to prevent anyone from entering the temples but to maintain a peaceful atmosphere within the sacred spaces. He emphasized that places of worship should always be centers of tranquility where devotees can offer their prayers peacefully, and the circular was aimed at ensuring this ambiance. The minister further stated that the directive did not involve checking anyone from entering the shrines, dispelling misunderstandings that arose after the circular was issued.

The TDB’s circular, issued by the Devaswom Commissioner, not only prohibited RSS activities on temple properties but also banned ‘namajapa protests’ (protests by chanting mantras) within the temple premises. It specifically addressed activities of the RSS and groups with “extreme ideologies,” stressing that their operations required prior permission from the TDB. The circular also instructed temple employees and priests to report the presence of such groups, and non-compliance would result in disciplinary action. Additionally, the directive prohibited displaying photos, flags, and flex boards of individuals unrelated to the temples, enforcing the High Court’s verdict on this matter. The move was met with criticism and sparked debate on social media platforms, with some alleging political motivations behind the decision.