Will Congress Hold a Torch Rally on Sabarimala Pilgrimage Opening Day?
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Synopsis
On November 17, the Congress party is set to hold a statewide torch rally to demand justice in the Sabarimala gold heist. This event coincides with the annual pilgrimage season, highlighting the urgency of their call for accountability from the Devaswom Minister. Stay tuned as tensions rise and the public’s faith in governance is put to the test.
Key Takeaways
- Congress torch rally on November 17.
- Demands justice for the Sabarimala gold heist.
- Calls for resignation of Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan.
- Protest coincides with the annual pilgrimage season.
- Highlighting public faith and trust issues.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 12 (NationPress) The Congress party will organize a state-wide protest torch rally, known as Prathiksha Jyothi, on November 17 (Vrichikam 1). This rally aims to demand the apprehension of all individuals implicated in the Sabarimala gold heist case and the resignation of Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan, as announced by KPCC president Sunny Joseph on Wednesday.
The announcement followed a large protest held by Congress leaders in front of the State Secretariat, calling for Vasavan's resignation.
Sunny Joseph emphasized that the Congress will persist with its protests until the minister resigns and all perpetrators of the gold theft face justice.
“Every Travancore Devaswom Board that held office from 2019 to 2025, along with the respective ministers in charge, carries responsibility for this grand theft of gold,” Sunny Joseph claimed.
He highlighted that both the remand report and court order in the case have confirmed the involvement of the minister and other senior officials.
“As of now, the stolen gold remains unrecovered, and the actual extent of the loss has yet to be determined,” he stated.
Sunny Joseph noted that this scandal has not only resulted in a financial loss but has also tarnished the sanctity and traditions associated with the Sabarimala temple.
Criticizing the government's management of the Devaswom administration, the KPCC president pointed out that the appointment of K. Jayakumar as the Devaswom Board president exposes the CPI-M’s lack of capable leadership.
“The ruling front has failed to safeguard the faith and trust of devotees,” he warned, stating that Congress will amplify its protests if the government continues to protect the accused.
Notably, the date chosen for Congress’s protest — November 17 — corresponds with the commencement of the two-month-long annual pilgrimage season at the revered Sabarimala shrine.
Traditionally, the temple only opens during these two months, starting on the first day of the Malayalam month of Vrichikam.
It was only in more recent years that temple authorities opted to open the sanctum briefly during the initial days of each Malayalam month.
Point of View
It is essential to provide an unbiased perspective on the ongoing situation surrounding the Sabarimala gold heist. The Congress party's actions reflect a broader concern for accountability in governance. This protest highlights the intersection of faith and politics, urging us to consider the implications for both the temple's integrity and the trust of the devotees. The outcome of this rally could significantly impact Kerala's political climate and the future of the Devaswom administration.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Congress torch rally?
The Congress torch rally aims to demand the arrest of all individuals involved in the Sabarimala gold heist and the resignation of Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan.
When is the Congress protest scheduled?
The protest is scheduled for November 17, coinciding with the opening day of the annual pilgrimage season at the Sabarimala shrine.
Why is the Sabarimala temple significant?
The Sabarimala temple is a major pilgrimage site, traditionally open only during the two months of Vrichikam, attracting millions of devotees.
What allegations have been made against the Devaswom Minister?
The allegations include his involvement in the gold heist and failure to recover the stolen gold or identify the extent of the loss.
What impact could this protest have on the local governance?
The protest could pressure the government to take action regarding the allegations and could influence public trust in the ruling party.
