In a significant ruling, the Madras High Court has upheld an individual's right to keep and worship idols within their home, firmly rejecting the notion that such practices are inherently linked to superstition. Justice D Bharatha Chakravarthy made the observations while hearing a contempt petition regarding the seizure of idols from a residence in Ennore.
The case originated when A. Karthik, a resident of Ennore, installed idols of Sivasakthi Dhakshiswari, Vinayagar, and Veerabhadran Swamy in his house, where he and his neighbors peacefully worshipped. Following the commencement of these rituals, some unexplained deaths were reported in the vicinity, leading local residents to file complaints, prompting authorities to seize the idols. Karthik then filed a petition challenging this action, and the High Court, in April 2025, ordered the idols to be returned. Subsequently, Karthik filed a contempt petition, alleging that officials had not complied with the court's order.
Justice Chakravarthy, addressing the matter, emphasized that government officials should not act on superstitions or unfounded beliefs. He stated that peacefully worshipping idols within one's premises is a protected right, and the public cannot take the law into their own hands under the guise of majority opinion. The judge cautioned authorities against giving in to superstition and false beliefs. He further clarified that any construction done without permission is liable for action from the local authority.
The court also addressed concerns raised by government pleaders, who argued that midnight poojas were disturbing the public. In response, Justice Chakravarthy directed that while the idols be returned to the petitioner, worship should not be conducted in a manner that disrupts public peace. The court also noted that the police are authorized to take action if loudspeakers are used or noise pollution is created, disturbing the vicinity. The judge directed the HR&CE department to take action if a hundi (donation box) has been kept there.
Furthermore, Justice Chakravarthy stated that, "God or an idol will never harm any human being, and such beliefs are only superstitions and cannot be said to be in tune with the principles of Bhakti or science". This statement underscores the court's view that faith and devotion should not be conflated with superstition. The Madras High Court has in the past lamented the prevalence of superstitious beliefs in society. In February 2024, the court granted protection to a man seeking to remove a stone "projected as an idol" at his property entrance, expressing disappointment that society had not moved past superstitious beliefs.
The Madras High Court has also in the past made it clear that the right to worship is not absolute, especially when it comes to environmental concerns. In August 2025, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court ruled that while the right to worship is a fundamental right, it cannot override environmental laws or public order.
The ruling reinforces the principle that while the right to practice one's faith is protected, it must be exercised responsibly and without infringing on the rights and well-being of others.
