The division bench comprising Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V and Justice K V Jayakumar, delivered the judgment while disposing of a petition challenging the engagement of security personnel, wearing T-shirt with the word “bouncer”, to control devotees in the Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple, Thrippunithura, during the Temple Festival.

The petitioner contended that the deployment of such individuals within the temple for the purpose of managing and directing devotees was inappropriate and fundamentally incompatible with the sanctity, decorum and cultural ethos that the temple environment demands.

The Standing Counsel for the Devaswom Board submitted that owing to the enormous and unmanageable crowds in the temple during the festival, the security agency was engaged.

It was further submitted that it was unfortunate that individuals wearing T-shirts with the word “bouncer” were deployed during the festival and assured that such incidents will not recur in the future.

Recording the submissions, the Court disposed of the petition by directing the Board to exercise due caution and refrain from engaging personnel wearing inappropriate attire, for security during temple festivals or within temple precincts.

Case Title: N Prakash v The Cochin Devaswom Board

Case No: WP(C) 44899/ 2025

Citation: 2025 LiveLaw (Ker) 798

Counsel for Respondents: K P Sudheer (SC-GP), S Rajmohan (Sr. GP)