Srirangam temple land encroachment investigation

Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Minister S Ramesh has launched an investigation into the alleged encroachment of Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple land in Srirangam. The disputed property, valued at approximately Rs 50 crore, is reportedly being used as a DMK party office. Historical records from 1866, 1910, and 1930 are being used to support claims that the land belongs to the temple, following allegations that a DMK area secretary used forged documents in 2022 to transfer the property.

As the investigation progresses, Minister Ramesh has criticized former minister P K Sekar Babu regarding temple administration and has noted that police are investigating the land-grabbing allegations. The Minister questioned the decision of the accused official to seek anticipatory bail, suggesting that if the allegations were false, the individual should face the inquiry without fear. Additionally, the HR&CE Department has stated it will act on complaints regarding fraudulent advertisements for temple lands and reports of irregularities in tax collection and Srirangam temple properties.