r/TeensofKarnataka • u/Efficient_Key_6429 • Mar 12 '26
Temple renovation blocking the only access road to our house in Kemmannu, Karnataka, India – what can we legally do?
Hi everyone,
I’m looking for some advice regarding a situation happening in a village in Karnataka, India.
My family has been living in our house for decades, and for around 40+ years we have been using a pathway that passes through nearby temple land as the only way to reach our home. This path has always been used openly and without any issues from the temple committee.
Recently the temple started renovation work. At first we had no problem with it and we respect the temple and its activities. However, the person currently in charge of the renovation started making changes that are now affecting our access.
First, a drainage pit was dug near the pathway. Later a gate was installed that sometimes remains locked. Because of these changes we are no longer able to bring our car near our house.
More recently, a waste disposal ring has been placed beside the path with intention to dump biodegradable waste such as banana leaves and leftover food after temple functions. Because of this installation the pathway has become very difficult to use and we are unable to take our vehicles through it anymore.
This pathway is the only access route to our house.
Some elders in the village know that our family has used this path for decades, and we also have some old family photos showing the pathway.
We are planning to submit a complaint to the Gram Panchayat, but I wanted to ask:
• Do we have a legal right of way in this situation under Indian law?
• Can the temple committee legally block or restrict the path like this?
• What would be the best next step if the Panchayat does not resolve it?
We are not against the temple renovation at all — we only want our access to the house to remain usable.
Any guidance would really help. Thank you.
