MP High Court Seeks Detailed Report On Religious Structures Constructed On Police Stations Premises 

Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh): The Jabalpur bench of Madhya Pradesh High Court, has ordered the state government to present a list of temples and other religious structures constructed inside the police station premises, across the state. 

The bench of Chief Justice Suresh Kumar Kait heard the matter and ordered the government to submit the details within seven days. The court also asked for information about the dates on which these structures were built and the orders under which they were established.

What is the matter?

The case stemmed from a petition filed by advocate Satish Chandra Verma, challenging the construction of religious structures within police station premises. He argued that such constructions go against the secular principles of the Indian Constitution.

The petition claims that out of 1,259 police stations in Madhya Pradesh, over 800 have religious structures on their premises. The petitioner alleged that this constitutes misuse of government property and violates the principle of religious neutrality.

Court demands detailed records

During the hearing, the court expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s lack of a satisfactory reply. It made it clear that only factual and specific information would be accepted. Also, detailed records of the legitimacy and orders behind the construction of these religious sites are needed.

Construction violates Article 14
The petition highlights that such constructions violate Article 14 (Right to Equality) and Article 25 (Right to Freedom of Religion) of the Constitution. The petitioner argued that using government property for religious purposes undermines the secular ethos of the country.

Next hearing on Jan 6
The next hearing in the case is scheduled for January 6, 2025. By then, the government has been instructed to present all relevant data and documents. Advocate Satish Verma stated, "This issue violates the core principles of the Constitution and secularism. We hope the High Court takes strict action."