On December 5, 2025, the Supreme Court saw a sharp exchange over an appeal challenging a Madras High Court order about lighting lamps at the Arulmighu Subramaniya Swamy Temple on Thiruparankundram hill in Tamil Nadu, near a dargah. The Tamil Nadu State counsel sought to list the appeal early. This request, made shortly after the court started at 10:30 am, was opposed by advocate P.V. Yogeswaran, who accused the State of creating unnecessary drama in court. He said, “The State is only trying to convey to the High Court that it has moved the Supreme Court.” The Chief Justice of India Surya Kant asked the lawyers to calm down and said the request would be considered in due time. The background: On December 4, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court rejected the State’s plea against an order allowing the lighting of lamps on the hill under Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) protection. The High Court quashed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of BNSS issued in Tirupparankundram on December 3. It directed lamp lighting for Sarvalaya Deepam day on December 4 evening, stating, “December 4 is Sarvalaya Deepam day. Therefore, Karthigai Deepam can be lit today also. This order should be read along with the earlier orders passed by the court. Except for deputing the CISF Personnel and the change regarding the date, in all other respects, the directions issued on December 3 hold good.” The case was set for compliance reporting on December 5. Tension from this issue spilled over to the top court, highlighting the sensitivity of religious rituals near conflicting areas. The hearing continues as the Supreme Court considers how to proceed.