In Brief
The Supreme Court monitored compliance with its earlier judgment protecting the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple's Shivalinga in Ujjain, which was suffering continued erosion. Expert inspections revealed chemical deterioration due to high pH levels in ritual materials and mechanical damage from ornament weight and devotee contact. The Court issued comprehensive directions including: yearly expert surveys, strict prohibition of rubbing and control of offerings, provision of pure milk by the temple management, 24-hour video surveillance of rituals, structural assessment by specialized engineers, removal of unauthorized modern construction, and clearance of encroachments within 500 meters. The orders balance preservation of this sacred heritage site with continuation of authentic religious practices under expert temple management supervision."
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