The Supreme Court on Thursday allowed the traditional “Ram Leela” event to be held at a school playground in Uttar Pradesh, while stressing that school grounds are generally not meant for religious festivities. The bench noted that the event has been organised at the same venue for over a century, dating back more than 100 years.
“Although we do not endorse religious events on school grounds, this Ram Leela has been taking place for a century, and this year’s festivities began on September 14,” the bench said while staying the Allahabad High Court order on the matter.
The bench, comprising Justices Surya Kant, Ujjal Bhuyan, and N Kotiswar Singh, imposed conditions ensuring the event does not disrupt students’ activities or sports. The petitioner, Pradeep Singh Rana, was criticised for approaching the court only after the festivities began, despite acknowledging its century-long history.
Rana had raised concerns after the school authorities started building a concrete wall and alleged that the playground was occupied between 7 pm and 10 pm, limiting students’ recreational use.
The Supreme Court suggested that the district administration explore alternative sites for the event and directed a proposal hearing with all stakeholders before issuing final orders. The petitioner may also become a party in the High Court proceedings, with the bench requesting hearings for all concerned parties.