The Madras High Court has directed the Tamil Nadu Government to implement a ban against the usage of mobile phones in temples across Tamil Nadu, "so as to maintain the purity and sanctity."

Justice R Mahadevan and Justice J Sathya Narayana Prasad of the HC bench here gave the direction to the State Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment (HR&CE) Department on Friday while hearing a public interest litigation (PIL).

Petitioner M Seetharaman sought a direction to the authorities concerned to take effective measures to prohibit the possession and usage of android cellphones inside the premises of Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy Temple at Tiruchendur in Tuticorin district in the State. It is one of the six abodes of Lord Muruga.

Among others, the petitioner contended that since the said temple is an ancient shrine, for free and peaceful dharsan, the usage of camera to videograph or photograph the Deeparathanai, poojas and other rituals is a hindrance. All the devotees are in possession of mobile phones and they take photographs or videos within the premises of the temple, without any restrictions.

Taking photographs of the valuable idols is not only contrary to the Agama Rules (related to a temple's rituals), but also endangers the security of the temple and its valuables, he submitted.

The petitioner also expressed apprehension of photographs of women devotees being taken without their consent, which will be misused.

The court was informed by the temple authorities that steps have been taken to impose restrictions for usage of cell phones by the priest, devotees, public and others inside the shrine, appoint self-help groups to supervise the usage of cell phones and set up security counters for deposit of cell phones.