The Madurai district administration imposed prohibitory orders on Wednesday night in Tirupparankundram. This came as Hindu groups protested to light the Karthigai Deepam lamp on the hilltop pillar near a dargah, following a Madras High Court order by Justice G R Swaminathan. Around 9 p.m., petitioners with CISF personnel tried to reach the hilltop but were stopped by Madurai City Police Commissioner J. Loganathan. The police cited Section 144 imposed by District Collector K.J. Praveen Kumar, pointing to earlier protests where crowds created tension and damaged public property. "To control the crowd and to ensure peace in the area, we have prohibited anyone from entering the hill itself," said Commissioner Loganathan. He added that the State has filed an appeal against the judge's order, so the police could not allow access until the court decides. Despite the police restrictions, petitioners gathered at the spot pleading to light the lamp. Earlier, about 600 members from Hindu Munnani, BJP, and other groups protested outside the HR&CE office, condemning the State government for blocking entry. The 'Mahadeepam' lamp was lit as usual near the Subramaniaswamy Temple on the hill. Justice Swaminathan had earlier criticized the temple management for not lighting the Deepam at the 'Deepathoon' as directed. He allowed the petitioner and ten others to light the lamp, citing the violation as contempt of court. Swaminathan said, "Rule of law is at stake. The State administration has decided to cock a snook at the court's order." He also questioned the appeal filed by the temple as a tactic to avoid obeying the order. The Judge appointed the CISF to protect the petitioner’s group for lighting the lamp. The matter is set for compliance reporting on December 4.