THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: ‘Mathru Sakthi Koottayma,’ a women’s association in Thiruvananthapuram, staged a protest against the Kerala government for the CPI(M)’s encroachment on Saraswathi Mandapam in Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram. The Saraswathi Mandapam converted as a platform for political campaigns by the CPI(M), which sparked the protest.
As part of the promotional campaign for the extravagant program ‘Nava Kerala Sadas,’ initiated on November 18, the CPI(M) converted the historically significant Hindu temples, Saraswathi Mandapam into the organizing committee office for the event.
The protest, led by ‘Mathru Sakthi Koottayma,’ demanded the relocation of the campaign office from the temple premises.
The Saraswathi Mandapam was covered by ‘Nava Kerala Sadas’ banners, and entry for devotees was restricted by CPI(M) members. Traditionally, the Mandapam is used for Ayyappa pooja during the Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrim season and is considered sacred by devotees. However, this Mandalam season, devotees are being compelled to stay away by CPI(M) leaders.
During the protest inauguration meeting, the association’s president highlighted that despite opposition from devotees, CPI(M) activists encroached upon the temple, issuing threats.
They expressed concern over the CPI(M) government’s encroachment on the Mandapam, reflecting a lack of respect for Hindu believers and their places of worship. The association emphasized the government’s view of temples as mere buildings or commercial centers, neglecting the sentiments of Hindu devotees.
Today the High Court will consider the petition filed by devotees against this encroachment by the CPI(M).
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