In a significant ruling, the Kerala High Court has prohibited the use of Thekkinkadu Maidan in Thrissur for political events and gatherings. This decision comes as part of the court’s efforts to regulate activities at the Maidan, which is managed by the Cochin Devaswom Board (CDB). The court has also restricted the CDB from allowing state government departments to conduct events at the Maidan without its permission.
The CDB had approached the court, citing an acute financial crisis that hindered its ability to effectively manage the 409 temples under its jurisdiction. The Board argued that lifting the requirement for court permission to let out the Maidan for various events would significantly boost its income, which would then be utilized for temple development and devotee welfare. However, the court has not granted this request, instead opting to maintain its oversight.
As part of its ruling, the court has directed that no permanent or semi-permanent constructions can be erected at the Maidan without its prior approval. Furthermore, the court has outlined specific conditions that must be included in agreements between event organizers and the CDB. These conditions include proper waste management, sound level regulation, and a ban on the use of non-biodegradable materials.
The court’s decision builds upon previous rulings related to the use of the Maidan. In 1990, the court allowed the CDB to grant temporary licenses for seasonal businesses during the Thrissur Pooram festival. In 2003, the court restricted activities at the Maidan to those that would not offend devotees. Permanent constructions were prohibited in 2010, and the court directed afforestation activities at the site.
The court’s intervention in 2022 allowed exhibitions on the Pooram ground to support the CDB during the financial crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The court also halted the installation of hoardings and structures that impeded pedestrian access.
The Kerala High Court’s ruling aims to strike a balance between the CDB’s financial needs and the need to preserve the sanctity of the Maidan and its surroundings.
