Police registered cases against 113 individuals, including BJP leader Nainar Nagendran, following protests at Thiruparankundram hill temple over denied permission to light the Karthigai Deepam on the peak despite Madras High Court Madurai Bench orders.
Around 500 protesters, including Hindu Munnani activists and BJP workers, were detained after clashing with police, dismantling barricades, and attempting to reach the hilltop Deepathoon.
Cases split into two groups: 93 against Nagendran’s group and 20 against Hindu outfit members, under seven sections for unlawful assembly and disturbing public peace.
The Madurai Bench directed temple authorities to allow lamp lighting at the hilltop, quashing prohibitory orders, but authorities lit it at Utchi Pillaiyar Mandapam instead, sparking outrage.
Ramil Nadu government challenged this in Supreme Court and Madras HC principal seat, citing security and leading to continued police blocks on December 4.
Tensions escalated with scuffles injuring policemen, prompting Section 163 BNSS prohibitory orders and CISF deployment.