"Temple money, first of all, belongs to the deity. So therefore, this money has to be saved, protected and utilised only for the interests of the temple. It can't become a source of income or survival for a cooperative bank," observed the CJI.

The top court went on to add that you (banks) should establish your credibility among the people. "If you are unable to attract the customers and deposits, that is your problem," the CJI pointed out.

The bench eventually rejected the pleas, but granted liberty to the petitioners to approach the HC seeking an extension of time.

The appeals in the apex court were filed by Manathnawady Co-operative Urban Society Ltd and Thirunelly Service Cooperative Bank Ltd, challenging the judgment passed by a division bench of the HC in August.

The Thirunelly Devaswom had earlier approached the HC aggrieved by the refusal of the co-operative banks to repay the fixed deposits in spite of repeated requests.

When Justice Bagchi said the banks were supposed to immediately release the amounts when the deposits matured, the lawyer appearing for the banks replied, "We have been providing them services as per their needs. We have also started a special branch in their premises as per request. They have been consistently renewing the FDs."