Biometric attendance at Madurai temple: Madurai High Court

Petitioner, Kalyanasundaram, from Rajapalayam, in his petition, had stated that Tiruchendur Murugan Temple handles large amounts of cash in various denominations from devotees for offering special prayers. 

People who pay more are allowed near the deity and let to spend more time in the sanctum sanctorum. However, some of the priests who do not belong the temple misdirect the devotees saying that they will get them the same facilities for a lesser amount if it is paid to them personally and not to the temple. 

The money is not deposited to the temple, stated the petition. A separate team of officials should be formed and the priests who are not attached to the temple should not be allowed inside. Identity cards should be provided to the temple staff and biometric equipment should be installed at the temple to monitor the entry of the staff into the temple, prayed the petitioner. 

Justices Muralidharan and Krishnavalli directed the HR&CE officials to ensure that only priests associated with the temple are present inside. No extra amount should be collected from the devotees for special prayers, said the bench. 

The bench also directed the Joint Commissioner of HR&CE and Executive Officer of the temple to install biometric equipment in the temple with weekly inspection. They were also directed to provide basic amenities such as toilet and water facilities. They have been directed to submit a report by July 5.