P.R. Murlidharan & Ors vs Swami Dharmananda Theertha Padar & Ors

The Supreme Court upheld the Kerala High Court's decision granting police protection to the respondent, who claimed to be the Madathipathi and Sthiradhyakshan of Vadayampadi Ashramam, under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. The Court found that the High Court had correctly determined the respondent's entitlement to hold the office based on the facts presented, emphasizing the state's obligation to protect individuals' rights and properties. The judgment affirmed the necessity of police protection in light of the ongoing disputes regarding the trust's governance and the respondent's claimed position.