TN orders rule changes to curb repeat temple tender holders
Madurai: Tamil Nadu HR&CE Minister Ramesh has directed officials to amend tender norms in temples under the department to prevent a small group from repeatedly securing contracts over long periods. The HR&CE department oversees around 44,000 temples in the state. In higher-revenue temples and those in the next tier, temple administrations typically earn income by issuing tenders for services such as flower and fruit sales, footwear counters and parking. According to officials, complaints had been received that a few individuals—often with political backing—were continuously taking these tenders and, in some cases, collecting increased charges without the temple administration’s approval. Following discussions with officials, the minister instructed that rules be revised to widen participation.
