HR&CE Relaxes Temple Mobile Ban; Phones Allowed Inside If Kept Switched Off
13 Oct 2026Updated 37 min ago1 source
AI translation — this coverage was originally reported in Tamil; the translation may contain errors. Read the original reports below.
The Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department has relaxed its mobile phone ban across 52 major temples in the state. Devotees are now permitted to carry their mobile phones inside the premises on the strict condition that they remain completely switched off. The ban on photography, videography, selfies, and uploading temple images to social media remains strictly in force, with officials warning of severe action against violators.
NIKAN Intelligence
What happened
The Tamil Nadu HR&CE department has relaxed the mobile phone ban inside 52 major temples. Devotees can now carry their mobile phones inside, provided the devices are switched off.
Why it matters
The complete ban enforced on September 1 caused difficulties for devotees who could not contact family members in emergencies. The relaxation balances security and convenience by keeping the ban on photography while allowing phone custody.
What we know
- A ban on mobile phones inside 52 major Tamil Nadu temples was enforced on September 1, 2023.
- Locker facilities charging Rs 5 were established at temple entrances.
- Devotees can now bring phones inside if they are kept switched off.
- Taking photos, videos, selfies, and posting on social media inside the temples remains strictly prohibited.
What we don't know
- How authorities plan to verify and monitor if phones are kept switched off inside the premises.
- The specific penalties or legal action that will be taken against violators.
What's next
The immediate implementation of this relaxed rule across the 52 designated temples under HR&CE control.
Generated by NIKAN's analysis engine from the cited reports only. Nothing here is invented; gaps are shown as unknowns. Always read the original coverage linked below.
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AI translation — may contain errors
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