Chennai, Dec 6 (NationPress) The Hindu Munnani has declared that statewide protests will take place across Tamil Nadu on Sunday, accusing the government of religious discrimination and intentional obstruction of Hindu customs.

The organisation's state head, Kateshwar Subramaniam, stated that these protests aim to denounce what he referred to as the DMK government's double standards in addressing the Karthigai Deepam matter at the Thirupparankundram hill.

He claimed that the state administration has been playing a duplicitous game by using an appeal as an excuse to prevent the traditional lighting of the lamp at the Thirupparankundram hill.

The issue has been intensifying in recent days, following the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court's directive that allowed the lighting of the sacred lamp on the hilltop—a time-honored tradition linked to the Karthigai festival.

Initially, temple officials had started preparations to light the lamp at the hilltop, as per the court's instructions.

However, this decision was suddenly reversed, leading to vigorous protests from Hindu groups, including the Hindu Munnani, RSS-affiliated organisations, and several local entities.

Tensions heightened when police intervened to stop activists from reaching the hilltop, arguing that the government is set to file an appeal contesting the High Court's order.

The Hindu Munnani leader asserted that under the DMK rule, 158 temples have already faced demolition, warning that over 200 more may be at risk if this trend continues.

He alleged that the government's actions are driven by vote-bank politics and accused the ruling party of harboring antagonism toward Hindu religious institutions.

"I cannot comprehend why this government treats Hindus in this manner," Subramaniam remarked, stressing that a government claiming to be secular should have no justification for denying permission for the traditional lighting of the Karthigai lamp.

He characterized the state's stance as discriminatory and provocative, urging the public to participate in the protests to uphold religious rights and traditions.

The Hindu Munnani has declared that demonstrations will occur in all major towns and districts throughout Tamil Nadu on Sunday, with various Hindu groups expected to take part.

The organisation highlighted that the protests aim to draw attention to what it perceives as the state government's persistent attempts to interfere in Hindu religious practices, particularly regarding the ongoing dispute surrounding the Tirupparankundram Deepam.