Supreme Court Refuses Stay on Madras HC Ban: Tamil Nadu Temple Funds Cannot Be Used for Marriage Halls
On September 16, 2025, the Supreme Court of India refused to stay the Madras High Court’s decision. The High Court quashed the Tamil Nadu government’s order to use funds from five temples to build marriage halls across the state.
High Court and Supreme Court Views
The Madras High Court ruled that building marriage halls for rental—even if on temple land—does not count as a “religious purpose” under the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, 1959. The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, stated, “Devotees do not offer money to temples to build marriage halls. Temples must use money only for temple improvement”.
Arguments Presented
Petitioners argued that using temple funds for commercial activities breaks the donors’ intent and infringes on religious freedoms. The Tamil Nadu government claimed the marriage halls serve Hindu religious ceremonies. However, courts clarified that profit-driven use differs from charitable or religious activities.
The Supreme Court stressed that renting facilities for profit falls outside “charitable purpose”.
The Court highlighted that temple funds must support religious and charitable aims such as temple upkeep and helping the needy.
The justices suggested redirecting surplus funds to charities and educational causes.
Next Steps
The Supreme Court scheduled further hearings on November 19, 2025. It refused interim relief, allowing the Madras High Court’s order to stay in effect. This ruling protects temple funds from misuse and sets a precedent for safeguarding religious assets.
Conclusion
By upholding the Madras High Court order, the Supreme Court ensures that Tamil Nadu temple funds remain dedicated to religious and charitable uses. This decision curbs the commercialisation of sacred temple assets
