Madras HC: Prior permission needed for Nama Sankeerthanam at homes

Chennai (Team Newsbuddy): The Madras High Court has ruled that Nama Sankeerthanam—congregational devotional chanting—cannot be conducted at residential premises without prior permission from the District Collector.

The order, was issued by Justice Anand Venkatesh while hearing a petition filed by Prakash Ramachandran, a resident of Chromepet in Chengalpattu district. The petitioner alleged that his neighbour, T.S. Subramanian, had permitted the Global Organisation for Divinity (GOD) to regularly conduct devotional gatherings at a residential property, causing nuisance to nearby residents.

The court observed that using a residential space as a prayer hall requires prior administrative approval, and until such permission is granted, no such gatherings should be held. The judge remarked:

“What sounds divine to one may cause disturbance to another.”

Justice Venkatesh emphasized that religious gatherings must not block public roads or create traffic congestion, and should not disturb the peace of the neighborhood.

The court directed the local police to ensure that the premises is not used as a public prayer hall until official approval is obtained. Any devotional activity must remain confined to within the house and not cause public inconvenience.

Interestingly, the judge had earlier in January 2024 noted that bhajans, Rama Nama, and annadanam held in private halls do not require permission, provided they are peaceful and lawful.

This latest ruling clarifies the legal distinction between private devotion and public religious events conducted in residential areas.