The Supreme Court on Monday, February 2, 2026, decided to examine a plea challenging a Kerala High Court order. The issue concerns the selection of temple priests based on religious texts. A Bench led by Justice Vikram Nath issued notices to the State of Kerala, Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), and Kerala Devaswom Recruitment Board (KDRB). The petition was filed by Akhila Kerala Thanthri Samajam and its office-bearer. The Kerala High Court had earlier rejected a plea that sought to declare certificates from accredited Thanthra Vidyalayas by TDB or KDRB as unconstitutional. The High Court found the claim—that people not involved in spiritual functions were being appointed—as untenable. The court noted that the qualifications for the post of part-time santhi (temple priest) were set by TDB after expert advice from KDRB. These qualifications have also been approved by the government. The Supreme Court's upcoming review will decide if the High Court's ruling stands or not.