Source: The post Temple funds advance justice and education across South India has been created, based on the article “Temples of social justice” published in “The Hindu” on 21st July 2025
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper1- Society- Social justice
Context: A controversy in Tamil Nadu over using temple funds to build colleges has revived debate on the regulation of secular aspects of religious endowments. The issue reflects a unique model of social justice and governance rooted in South India’s colonial and pre-colonial history, with current relevance as elections approach. Temple funds advance justice and education across South India
For detailed information on State Control of Temples- Arguments for and against read this article here
Historical Evolution of Religious Endowment Laws
Colonial Beginnings: The regulation began with the Religious Endowment and Escheats Regulation of 1817, initiated by the East India Company. Despite Queen Victoria’s 1858 proclamation of non-interference in religious affairs, British officials in Madras Presidency supported continued oversight of religious endowments.
Balanced Approach Adopted: The British settled on regulating only the secular aspects—such as land and finances—of religious institutions. Ritualistic religious practices remained untouched.
Justice Party’s Legislative Push: In 1920, the Justice Party institutionalized government oversight through Bill No. 12 of 1922. Though contested, it led to the 1925 enactment of a law allowing surplus temple funds to be used for public welfare, a provision retained in later laws including the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, 1959.
Legal Framework for Surplus Fund Use
Provisions of the 1959 Act: Section 36 of the Act permits trustees to use surplus funds—defined as amounts left after temple maintenance—for approved purposes, with prior approval from the Commissioner. Surplus can also be used when the original purpose is no longer feasible.
Educational Applications: Section 66 allows funds to be used for creating and maintaining colleges or universities. These institutions must offer education related to Hindu religion or temple architecture, supporting the legal validity of using temple funds for colleges.
Judicial Backing: Constitutional courts have upheld these provisions. The law supports such diversion of funds as both legal and in alignment with the temples’ original socio-cultural role.
Historical Role of Temples in Society
Temples as Cultural Hubs: Since at least 970 AD, temples have received royal patronage for socio-cultural and educational purposes. For example, Chola queen Sembiyan Mahadevi donated land to temples, and inscriptions confirm their use as learning centers.
Mandapams as Learning Spaces: Large halls within temples were traditionally used for educational and cultural activities, reinforcing the precedent of using temple spaces and resources for public learning.
Link to Social Justice and Reform
Anti-Caste Measures and Oversight: The Self-Respect Movement used temple oversight to advance anti-caste reforms, such as temple entry laws and the appointment of priests from backward classes in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Legacy of State Involvement: From colonial times, the state’s involvement helped ensure that temple resources supported broader societal goals. Government control has enabled redistribution of temple wealth for public good.
Threats to Reform Achievements: Calls to restrict government oversight challenge the foundation of social justice in temple management. Reversing this could undo decades of inclusive reform and equitable resource use.
Broader Implications
Political Sensitivities and Electoral Impact: With elections nearing, the controversy risks being used for polarization. Understanding the historical and legal framework can help prevent misuse of the issue in political narratives.
Need for Informed Discourse: Rather than viewing the use of temple funds solely through legal or religious lenses, the issue must be seen within the context of public welfare and constitutional morality rooted in South Indian traditions.
Question for practice:
Discuss how the regulation and use of temple funds in Tamil Nadu reflect a broader model of social justice and religious reform in South India.
