Shimla, March 16,
The Himalayan Brahmo Samaj, Shimla, has won a significant legal battle after the Supreme Court ruled in its favor, prohibiting Lalit Verma and others, including members of the Ramakrishna Mission, from interfering in the temple affairs.
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During a press conference, Trustee Mahendra Kumar hailed the verdict as a “historic victory” and expressed gratitude to the Supreme Court for upholding their rights. Advocate Jyotika Sharma elaborated on the court proceedings, emphasizing that similar protection was granted in 2015 by the Additional District Judge but had been repeatedly violated by the opposing parties.
The Supreme Court’s order reinstated the decision of the Additional District Judge (ADJ), stating:
“The respondents, including members of Ramakrishna Mission and others, are hereby restrained from interfering in the ownership and possession of the applicants or from alienating the suit land by way of sale, etc.”
The court noted that the Additional District Judge had originally granted an injunction in 2015, barring any interference from the respondents. However, despite these clear legal restrictions, the respondents had continued to violate the orders, leading to repeated legal disputes.
The Supreme Court further ruled:
“The grant of leave and the consequential order of injunction stand restored, and the suit shall proceed from that stage.”
Additionally, the court overturned the High Court’s ruling that questioned the jurisdiction of the Additional District Judge, reaffirming that:
“The Principal District Judge has the authority to transfer cases to the Additional District Judge under the Himachal Pradesh Courts Act. Therefore, the previous orders quashing the ADJ’s decision cannot be sustained in the eyes of the law.”
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Following the verdict, the Brahmo Samaj leaders have urged the government and district administration to enforce the Supreme Court’s orders without delay. They have appealed to the President of India, the Governor of Himachal Pradesh, and the Chief Minister to take necessary action, including instructing the Deputy Commissioner of Shimla to prevent any further interference.
Mahendra Kumar emphasized that their next step is to resume worship at the Himalayan Brahmo Samaj Temple. He warned that if the authorities fail to implement the Supreme Court’s directive, the Brahmo Samaj would be compelled to launch a nationwide movement to protect their rights.
The press conference was attended by several key members, including Trustee Harish Kumar, Secretary Anil Sood, and Advocate Jyotika Sharma. They reiterated their demand for the full enforcement of the court’s order, ensuring the temple’s uninterrupted functioning under its rightful trustees.
