In a recent decision dated November 28, 2025, the Madras High Court ordered that temple jewels taken during a corruption investigation involving a government worker and his family be given back. The court determined that the jewels belonged to local temples and not to the accused individuals.
The case started with a complaint by Mr. Abdul Malik from Sivagangai District. The Director of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption began looking into the matter on October 6, 2021. A police report was filed against Rameswaramurugan, a government worker, and his family for having assets that were much more than what they could have earned, totaling over Rs. 3.89 crore.
On October 12, 2023, a search at V.M. Chinnapalanisamy's house in Erode led to the discovery of Locker Key No.1331. The locker contained temple jewels, and Chinnapalanisamy claimed they were being kept safe for the Arulmigu Makaliamman and Kariyakaliamman temples.
"The jewels were given to V.M. Chinnapalanisamy because he is a religious and respected person," said the lawyer for Chinnapalanisamy.
V.M. Chinnapalanisamy asked the court in March 2024 to get the locker key back, but his request was initially turned down. He argued that the jewels were needed for temple ceremonies and that the delay upset the temple's followers.
The investigation confirmed the jewels' temple origin through several evaluations. The Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department and temple authorities supported Chinnapalanisamy's claims.
Justice M. Nirmal Kumar decided that the jewels should be returned to the temple authorities. The court instructed that the jewels be moved to a new locker managed by the temple's Executive Officer.
"The jewels are not part of the assets that were more than what they could have earned," noted the court.
The court's decision allows the temple to use the jewels for ceremonies, restoring community trust. The jewels will now be handled by the temple's Executive Officer, ensuring they are used for their intended purpose.
