Supreme Court issues notice to Karnataka govt on plea to take over Murugha Mutt properties
New Delhi : The Supreme Court of India has issued a notice to the Karnataka government on a petition seeking that the properties of Murugha Mutt be taken over by the state. The matter was heard by a division bench led by Justice Pankaj Mithal.
The petition, filed by H. Ekantayya, has urged the court to direct the state government to assume control over the mutt’s assets, citing concerns over their management. The plea challenges an earlier order of the Karnataka High Court, which had directed that the properties remain under the control of the mutt authorities.
During the hearing, the Supreme Court took note of the arguments presented and sought a response from the state government. The bench indicated that the matter involves significant legal and administrative questions concerning religious institutions and their governance.
Adding a new dimension to the case, a devotee of the mutt filed an intervention application before the apex court. The petitioner expressed apprehension that attempts were being made to sell certain properties belonging to the mutt. The devotee requested the court to allow participation in the proceedings to present additional facts and concerns.
The Supreme Court accepted the intervention plea and permitted the devotee to be part of the case. The bench observed that all relevant aspects, including allegations regarding potential sale of assets, would be examined in detail during subsequent hearings.
Legal experts say the case could have wider implications for the management of religious institutions and the extent of government oversight. The balance between autonomy of religious bodies and the need for accountability is likely to be a key issue before the court.
The Karnataka High Court’s earlier order had favoured continued control of the mutt’s properties by its management, prompting the present appeal before the apex court. With the Supreme Court now stepping in, the matter is expected to undergo detailed scrutiny.
The next hearing is likely to focus on responses from the state government and other stakeholders, as well as the concerns raised by the intervening devotee.
