THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala state government has reduced the funds for police expenses related to Sabarimala duty. The police had requested Rs 29 lakh from the government to cover various expenses for Sabarimala duty. However, the government sanctioned only Rs 9 lakhs.
Reports indicate that the police submitted a comprehensive budget report for Sabarimala, outlining daily expenses totaling Rs 29,57,500. Yet, the government approved only Rs 9,30,000. The government’s decision is expected to impact police operations in Sannidhanam during the upcoming Makaravilakku pilgrim season.
At the commencement of the Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrim season, the police initially requested Rs 50 lakhs. The department emphasized the need for funds to manage the increasing number of pilgrims, covering emergency medical assistance, food, and the requirement for additional police personnel on duty.
The State Police Chief directly communicated this demand to the government, but only Rs 20 lakhs were sanctioned.
Devotees have expressed concerns that inadequate funding for the police could affect their duties, subsequently impacting pilgrims. There have already been several allegations that insufficient force was deployed at Sabarimala, resulting in the failure of crowd management witnessed last week.
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