Supreme Court Appoints New Administrative Head to Oversee Election and Management of Oachira Parabrahma Temple.
03 December 2024
Civil Appeals >> Civil & Consumer Law
The appellants, who were elected as the Secretary and President of the Oachira Parabrahma Temple's Executive Committee in 2017, challenged two orders passed by the High Court of Kerala. The first order, dated 02.03.2020, involved the High Court’s directions for framing a Scheme for the temple's administration. The second order, dated 07.02.2023, resulted in the removal of the elected Executive Committee and the appointment of an unelected committee, contrary to the temple's Bye-laws.
The temple, which is historically significant and governs various institutions like a hospital and nursing school, operates under a three-tier elected management system. A 2006 lawsuit led to a judgment in 2010 directing the formulation of a management Scheme, while an interim order in 2010 appointed an Advocate Commissioner for certain duties. The appellants contended that the High Court improperly interfered in temple administration after the RFA was disposed of, and further contested the removal of their elected committee and appointment of a new one.
The Supreme Court ruled that there are serious administrative disputes regarding the temple's management and that elections should be held under the supervision of a newly appointed Administrative Head. Mr. Justice K. Ramakrishnan, a retired Judge, was appointed as the Administrator to conduct the election within four months, ensuring a smooth and fair process. Additionally, the appointed Administrator can seek further directions from the trial court if necessary. The Supreme Court’s decision also required all parties to cooperate with the Administrator, and directed the transfer of responsibilities from the existing administrative bodies.