MADURAI: The Madurai Bench of Madras High Court on Tuesday directed the Commissioner of Sankarankovil municipality to consider a representation made by a petitioner against the construction of a crematorium near a 'century-old' Vinayagar temple in Sankarankovil. Justice Abdul Quddhose, who heard the plea, directed the Commissioner to take a decision within six months.
According to the litigant M Nagarajan of Tenkasi, the temple — Aruvam Soodiya Vinayagar temple -- is an ancient stone temple constructed during the Pandya dynasty with beautiful sculptures. The temple has archaeological importance and should be declared a protected monument, he further said, adding that it is also surrounded by around 200 acres of wetlands used for paddy cultivation.
However, the municipality authorities are planning to construct an electric crematorium near the temple, he said. Stating that it would affect the sentiments of the devotees and cause difficulties for vehicle movement, Nagarajan sought a direction against the same.