Orders seat to be reserved in sanctum; criticizes trial court’s casual approach to matter of Jain faith
New Delhi, May 2, 2025 — In a significant ruling blending constitutional values with religious sentiments, the Delhi High Court has stepped in to safeguard the sanctity of the Devi Padmavati idol, revered by many in the Jain community.
The case has its roots in a decades-old tradition. The idol of Devi Padmavati was ceremoniously installed in 1978 within the sanctum sanctorum of a well-known Jain temple managed by Jain Sabha Dharmarth Trust. During temple renovations in 2017–2019, the idol was respectfully relocated. However, when the renovation was completed, all idols except that of Devi Padmavati were restored to their original places. This caused anguish among devotees, who saw the exclusion as not only disrespectful but a violation of established religious practice.
One devotee, Sh. Ajay Jain, filed a civil suit on behalf of the deity — as Indian law recognizes idols as legal entities — seeking her reinstatement. The trial court dismissed the case with the remark that “God is omnipresent,” suggesting worship could happen anywhere. The High Court found this approach “flippant” and lacking sensitivity to religious nuance.
Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani emphasized that courts must not trivialize matters of deep faith. He ordered that the idol remain in the temple and that her seat in the sanctum be kept vacant as a mark of respect until the matter is fully heard.
The next hearing is set for August 28, 2025. The decision marks a significant moment for faith-based legal rights and highlights the judiciary’s role in protecting religious harmony.
