Blurb
After Siddaramaiah Hiremath’s petition for Mahashivratri worship, the court allowed only him, among fifteen Hindu leaders, to perform puja at the site, granting partial relief
Kalaburagi
The Kalaburagi divisional bench of the High Court has allowed a petitioner to offer prayers to a Shivalinga located inside the Ladle Mashak Dargah in Aland town, while restricting others from accessing the site unless cleared by local authorities.
The order came after Siddaramaiah Hiremath filed a petition seeking permission to worship during Mahashivratri. Hiremath requested that a group of fifteen Hindu leaders be allowed to perform पूजा (worship), stating it was a long-standing tradition at the site. After reviewing the case, the court gave partial relief, allowing only Hiremath to conduct prayers.
The bench also instructed that if others apply to pray at the Shivalinga, the district administration must review these requests and decide according to the law. Officials are expected to balance religious rights with public safety and communal harmony.
Worship has been permitted within a set timeframe, from 2 pm to 6 pm, to manage the event in an orderly manner. Authorities believe this schedule will help prevent any untoward incidents.
Recognizing the sensitivity of the site, the court asked the district administration and police to provide adequate security for the petitioner. It also warned that strict action will be taken against anyone disrupting peace or violating rules.
The Ladle Mashak Dargah, known for its historical and cultural importance, has occasionally seen overlapping religious claims. This has made heightened vigilance necessary, especially during festivals like Mahashivratri, when large crowds are expected.
Legal experts say the decision balances the petitioner’s right to worship with the need for public order, placing further responsibility on local authorities. District officials are preparing a detailed security plan, including crowd management and preventive measures, to ensure celebrations proceed peacefully.
Community leaders have urged residents to respect the ruling, cooperate with authorities, and avoid spreading rumors. With preparations underway, the focus remains on smooth worship while maintaining harmony in the region.