Indications of ritual violation by activists in Sabarimala: Police beefed up security

Pathanamthitta: Taking advantage of the heavy rush in  Sabarimala, There are rumours that there is a ritual violation by activists. Following this, the police intensified the investigation. The Special Branch has been instructed to keep an eye on the activists who are likely to reach Sabarimala. The police clarified that the illegal move was just a rumour that could not be confirmed.

At the beginning of the Darshan season, the Home Department had distributed a booklet titled Instructions to Police Officers deployed on duty. It also included the issue of ritual violation. The inclusion of issues related to violation of customs in the general instructions given to the Kerala Police gave rise to huge controversies. After a strong protest was raised by the leadership of the BJP, the government withdrew the booklet. The minister had clarified that the government and the Devaswom Board had no bad intention in the incident.

During the Darshan season 2018, activists Kanakadurga and Bindu Ammini had tried to commit ritual violence with the assistance of the state government. Challenging the faith of lakhs of devotees, with the help of the police, they attempted to violate rituals at Sabarimala. The young women who tried to climb Sabarimala, during the night time with covered faces, were escorted by the police. The police team that reached Mufti from Pampa provided security for them. And the footage of them climbing the mountain was captured by the police camera. Six police officers were assigned for their security.

Soon after the incident, strong protests were organized across the state under the leadership of the BJP. As devotees from across the country came out in solidarity, the government withdrawn their action fearing public anger.

Sabarimala is experiencing heavy rush this year as this is the first Darshan season after Corona restrictions. More than 1 lakh people visit Sannidhanam on a daily basis. Under the cover of this rush, there is a concern whether the activists violate the customs with the support of the state government.