Madurai, Dec 18: Justice G.R. Swaminathan of the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Wednesday expressed strong displeasure after senior government officials failed to implement a court order he had issued, saying “none of the officials respected my order.”The remarks came during the hearing of a contempt of court case linked to a controversial order directing the lighting of the traditional lamp on Thiruparankundram Hill in Madurai. Justice Swaminathan had earlier directed that the ritual be allowed, but authorities reportedly imposed Section 144 prohibitory orders, effectively preventing compliance.
At the hearing via video conference, the Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary and other officials appeared before the judge. When officials cited law and order concerns and denied issuing prohibitory orders with any ulterior motive, the judge sharply questioned why his directive was ignored and demanded a detailed explanation in a written response.
Justice Swaminathan also took issue with remarks made by a state government–appearing lawyer suggesting he might enter electoral politics, and sought clarification on that assertion during proceedings.
The case has been adjourned for further hearing on January 9, 2026, with officials asked to submit comprehensive replies on why the court’s order was not implemented.