The Madras High Court on Wednesday restrained the use of residential premises for conducting Nama Sankeerthanam (congregational chanting of Hindu deities’ names) unless prior permission is granted by the district Collector.
Justice N. Anand Venkatesh issued the directive while hearing a writ petition filed by Prakash Ramachandran, a resident of Krishnamachari Street in Chromepet, Chengalpattu district. The petitioner complained that a neighbouring residential property was being used by a private organisation, Global Organisation for Divinity (GOD), for regular chanting sessions, allegedly causing disturbance to local residents.
The organisation, in its response, claimed it had obtained consent from surrounding residents and cited protection under Article 25 of the Constitution, which guarantees the freedom to practice and propagate religion.
However, the Court held that no religious group is permitted to use a residential property for congregational prayers without the express permission of the Collector, regardless of religious affiliation. The judge noted that what may be considered devotional by some could be a source of disturbance for others in the locality.
Referring to a previous order restraining Christian congregational prayers in residential premises in Kanniyakumari district, the Court said the same principle applies here. Justice Venkatesh stated, ‘Except the change in the name of God, all other things are the same,’ asserting uniform application of law across communities.
The respondents informed the Court that they had already submitted a representation to the Chengalpattu Collector seeking permission. The judge clarified that until such permission is granted, no recitation or gathering should take place at the premises.
The Inspector of Chitlapakkam Police Station was directed to ensure strict compliance with the Court’s order.
Justice Venkatesh observed, ‘Peace is the best prayer, and silence is the greatest prayer,’ emphasizing the need for maintaining tranquility in residential areas while practicing faith.
What is Nama Sankeerthanam?
Nama Sankeerthanam is the devotional chanting of God’s names, often done in groups with music and rhythm. Rooted in the Bhakti tradition, it’s a spiritual practice meant to bring peace, focus, and a sense of community. Commonly dedicated to deities like Krishna or Rama, it’s performed in temples, public spaces, and sometimes even homes. While peaceful in nature, the volume and frequency of such gatherings can sometimes lead to friction in residential areas, as seen in the recent Madras High Court case.