Tamil NaduWednesday, 14 October 2026·Hindu Tamil Thisai
Tamil Nadu eases temple mobile-phone restriction; voluntary deposit only
Tamil Nadu HR&CE has told officials not to compel devotees to deposit mobile phones at temple security centres.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In October 2026, Tamil Nadu’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department told officials that devotees visiting temples should not be forced to deposit their mobile phones at security centres, while allowing voluntary deposit only.
Key specifics
- Temple visitors in Tamil Nadu were earlier asked to leave mobile phones at the entrance security centre.
- The new instruction says phones may be accepted only if devotees voluntarily hand them over.
- Officials were told to monitor and act against misuse of mobile phones inside temples.
- The order aims to protect temple tradition, worship discipline and sanctity in Tamil Nadu.
- The change follows complaints and disputes between temple staff and devotees over phone deposit rules.
Exam lens
TNPSC Polity and Tamil Nadu administration question, temple management, HR&CE Department, voluntary phone deposit, protection of worship discipline — a likely one-liner asks what restriction was relaxed in Tamil Nadu temples.