BJP Leader H Raja Detained After Attempting to Access Sacred Tree in Madurai
Police in Madurai district detained eleven individuals on Monday night, including senior BJP leader H Raja. The group allegedly tried to enter the restricted area where the sacred Kallathi tree stands atop Thiruparankundram hill.
Sequence of Events Leading to Detention
According to police sources, the incident began on Monday evening around 3:40 PM. H Raja visited the Kasi Viswanathar temple on Thiruparankundram hill with other BJP functionaries for worship.
After completing their prayers, H Raja expressed a desire to check whether the Sikandar Badusha Dargah administration had tied a flag to the Kallathi tree. Police officials immediately denied permission for this request.
Confrontation and Police Action
An angered H Raja engaged in a verbal confrontation with the police personnel present at the site. Officers explained they could not allow access due to potential law and order concerns.
Despite the clear denial of permission, H Raja proceeded toward the Kallathi tree along with his companions. Police responded swiftly by forcibly bringing the entire group back to the foot of the hill around 7 PM.
Thiruparankundram police subsequently detained all eleven BJP functionaries, including H Raja. Authorities released them later the same day. The city police registered a formal case regarding the incident on Tuesday.
Significance of the Location
The Kallathi tree holds considerable religious importance in the region. Its location atop Thiruparankundram hill makes it a sensitive area requiring careful management of access and activities.
Police maintain strict protocols around the sacred site to prevent any disturbances or conflicts between different community groups who revere the location.
