Tamil Nadu Enforces Ban on Mobile Phones Inside Temples

The Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Tamil Nadu issued an order that takes effect from today, prohibiting the possession and use of mobile phones inside all state‑run and privately managed Hindu temples across the state. The directive, announced through a press release, instructs temple authorities to display clear signage and to ensure compliance among devotees entering the premises.

Officials said the measure aims to preserve the sanctity of worship spaces, preventing noise, distraction and the misuse of devices for commercial or political messaging during prayers. The department also highlighted that excessive phone usage can disturb the concentration of other worshippers and undermine the traditional atmosphere of the temples.

Temple trustees in Chennai, Madurai and other cities have been asked to cooperate fully, with staff empowered to politely request visitors to switch off or store their phones before entering the sanctum. Non‑compliance may attract a nominal fine, though the department emphasized that the primary focus is on voluntary adherence rather than punitive action.

Reactions among devotees have been mixed; while many applaud the effort to maintain reverence, some expressed inconvenience, especially those who rely on phones for emergency contact. The government has promised to review the policy after a three‑month trial period to assess its impact and address any practical concerns.