Bhopal: The Madhya Pradesh High Court Bar Association has expressed strong objections to the removal of a Hanuman Temple situated within the compound of the official residence of Chief Justice Suresh Kumar Kait. The issue has escalated, with the bar association seeking an inquiry into the matter and action against those involved.
In a letter addressed to Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, the bar association highlighted that the temple was a historical structure revered by previous Chief Justices, including Justices SA Bobde, AM Khanwilkar, and Hemant Gupta, all of whom were later elevated to the Supreme Court. The association noted that the temple was also used by the employees of the residence for daily worship and added that even former Muslim Chief Justices like Justice Rafat Alam and Rafiq Ahmed had never objected to its presence.
The association contended that the temple’s removal without government permission or a statutory order was improper, calling it an insult to believers of Sanatan Dharma. It further argued that the temple, maintained with government funds, was an essential facility for Chief Justices and staff to worship without having to travel elsewhere, ensuring peace and happiness in their lives.
The controversy gained momentum after Advocate Ravindra Nath Tripathi filed a complaint with the President, Prime Minister, CJI, and Union Law Minister. In his letter, Tripathi asserted that the temple’s demolition was unjustified since it was located on government property and had existed for decades. The complaint also emphasized that Justice Kait’s actions were inappropriate, as the bungalow does not belong to him personally.
Tripathi expressed concerns that the temple’s removal might set a precedent, citing a recent Public Interest Litigation (PIL) inspired by the incident. The PIL seeks the removal of all temples located within police stations across Madhya Pradesh. Tripathi has called for a criminal inquiry, the transfer of Justice Kait, and his recusal from hearing the PIL.
Madhya Pradesh High Court Bar Association President Dhanya Kumar Jain voiced disapproval over the temple’s removal, emphasizing that prior Chief Justices residing in the bungalow had no issue with the temple. “Justice Bobde, Justice Khanwilkar, and Justice Patnaik all respected the temple. It was a small place of worship, and prayers were regularly conducted there,” he stated.
Jain also speculated that Justice Kait’s adherence to Buddhism might have influenced the decision but clarified that the judge’s personal beliefs should not lead to the demolition of a historic structure on government property. “This is an official residence, and such actions should be thoroughly investigated. While it’s commendable that Justice Kait follows Buddhism, removing a temple like this is not appropriate if it indeed happened,” he added.
