Author: Meena Iyer

SC Refuses to Interfere with Madras HC’s Order on Kumbhabhishekam Timing at Thiruchendur Temple

By

The Supreme Court dismissed a plea by Sivarama Subramaniya Sasthirigal (the temple’s Vidhayahar) against the Kumbhabhishekam timing at Sri Subramaniya Swamy Temple, Thiruchendur. A bench of Justices Manoj Misra and N. Kotiswar Singh upheld the High Court’s expert committee decision to hold the ceremony on July 7 from 6:00–6:47 AM, saying courts should not decide auspicious timings. The petitioner had been on the committee.

Madras High Court Affirms That Same-Sex Couples Can Form a Family, Even If Not Legally Married

By

The Madras High Court, in a habeas corpus case, held that same-sex couples can legally form a family even though same-sex marriage is not recognized in India. A division bench of Justices GR Swaminathan and V Lakshminarayan ruled that family cannot be confined to heterosexual marriage and includes “chosen families.” The court criticized police inaction in protecting the couple and stressed the duty of the state to safeguard LGBTQIA+ rights. It also acknowledged civil unions through “Deeds of Familial Association” and directed continued protection for the petitioners, reinforcing dignity, liberty, and inclusivity for sexual minorities.