Gangai Vinayagar Temple & Ors vs Meenakshi Ammal & Ors

The Supreme Court held that the Trustees of Shri Gangai Vinayagar Temple could not alienate temple property without statutory permission, as established under relevant temple laws. The Court emphasized that the temple is a public temple and the principle of res judicata applies, affirming the High Court's decision that the trial court's finding on the nature of the property was final due to the absence of an appeal against the dismissal of O.S. No. 5 of 1978. The appeal was dismissed, upholding the High Court's ruling.