State Authorities Cannot Act on Superstitious Beliefs: Madras High Court

Chennai:

The Madras High Court has ruled that government authorities cannot take coercive action based on superstition or unsubstantiated public beliefs, while ordering the return of Hindu idols seized from a private individual’s residence.

The case arose after local residents attributed certain unnatural deaths in the neighbourhood to the presence of Hindu idols installed and worshipped inside a private house. Acting on complaints driven by fear and belief rather than evidence, local officials removed the idols, prompting the house owner to approach the High Court.

The Court observed that superstitious assumptions cannot form the basis of State action. It categorically held that religious symbols or idols cannot be treated as causes of harm merely because of public perception or fear. The judiciary stressed that the Constitution expects public authorities to act with reason, rationality, and scientific temper, not on irrational beliefs.

Emphasising the fundamental right to freedom of religion, the Court held that an individual is entitled to worship idols of their choice within their private premises, either alone or with consenting visitors. Such personal religious practice, the Court noted, does not become unlawful merely because neighbours disapprove or hold contrary beliefs.

The High Court also cautioned authorities against yielding to majority pressure, stating that public opinion rooted in superstition cannot override constitutional protections. Law enforcement, the Court said, must prevent lawlessness rather than encourage it by validating irrational fears.

While directing the return of the seized idols, the Court clarified that the petitioner must ensure that worship activities do not cause public disturbance. Any issues relating to noise, public nuisance, or unauthorised construction, if present, may be addressed separately under applicable laws.

The ruling reinforces an important constitutional principle: the State must protect personal liberty and religious freedom, not undermine them by acting on superstition or social panic.