On January 23, 2026, the Supreme Court decided to examine a petition seeking the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to “take over and control” the Subramaniya Swamy Temple at Thirupparankundram, Madurai, Tamil Nadu. A Bench headed by Justice Aravind Kumar issued notices to the Centre, ASI, and Tamil Nadu State regarding the plea. The Hindu Dharma Parishad filed the petition. It demands that the Karthigai Deepam be lit permanently, 24 hours a day, at a stone pillar called the deepathoon on Thirupparankundram Hill. The Parishad said that every year, on Karthigai day, lamps should light the entire hill, allowing Lord Muruga devotees to worship. The hill is a protected area under 'The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958'. It also has a history of disputes between the temple and mosque in 1915-16. The Madras High Court recently confirmed an earlier order directing the temple management to light the Karthigai Deepam at the deepathoon. The Court dismissed concerns about public disturbance as an “imaginary ghost” unless backed by the State. Tamil Nadu's government has expressed plans to challenge this order in the Supreme Court.