Political Row Erupts Over Denial of Permission for Karthigai Deepam at Thiruparankundram

A heated political confrontation has erupted between the DMK and the BJP over the Karthigai Deepam celebrations at the Thiruparankundram Hill Shrine in Madurai. Protesters engaged in sharp altercations with the Tamil Nadu police after being denied permission to light the holy lamp at the ancient Deepathoon pillar, despite citing court orders. An unidentified speaker defending the government stated, 'It is very, very clear that any order is appealable,' and accused the BJP of duplicity. Conversely, a critic of the government alleged an 'anti-Hindu mindset,' claiming authorities allow minority rituals at the adjoining Dargah while blocking the Deepam. The incident has sparked outrage over alleged double standards in the state's administration.