A controversy has erupted at the HR&CE administered Nellaiappar Temple after a luxury car was reportedly allowed inside the temple's inner courtyard, triggering strong reactions from devotees.

According to a Tamil Janam report, the vehicle was permitted entry into the inner prakaram area, a space traditionally considered sacred and restricted. The incident has drawn sharp criticism from devotees, who have questioned how such access was granted within the temple premises.

Devotees have condemned the actions of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department, alleging that the decision reflects a disregard for established temple customs and sanctity. Many expressed concern that allowing vehicles into sacred areas could set a precedent.

Several devotees also voiced fears that such actions could lead to further dilution of temple norms, with some raising apprehensions that vehicles might eventually be permitted closer to the sanctum sanctorum.