Why Did the Kerala HC Criticize the Devaswom Board Over Sabarimala Turmoil?
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Synopsis
The Kerala High Court has voiced concerns over the management of the Sabarimala pilgrimage, criticizing the Travancore Devaswom Board for their chaotic arrangements. With thousands of pilgrims stranded, the situation raises questions about crowd control and preparations for one of India's most significant pilgrimage seasons.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala High Court expressed dissatisfaction with the Devaswom Board.
- Severe crowd mismanagement left thousands stranded.
- Preparation for the pilgrimage season should start six months prior.
- Only a controlled number of devotees should be allowed entry based on capacity.
- Political leaders are demanding accountability from the government.
Kochi/Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 19 (NationPress) The Kerala High Court expressed strong discontent with the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) regarding the chaotic circumstances at Sabarimala, where numerous pilgrims found themselves stranded due to severe crowd mismanagement and insufficient arrangements.
The bench highlighted a glaring absence of coordination in crowd control and questioned why preparations had not commenced six months prior, despite the anticipated influx of devotees during the Mandala-Makaravilakku season.
Coincidentally, the two-month pilgrimage period began on Monday amidst widespread confusion and overwhelming crowds with inadequate provisions.
The High Court further noted that simply searching pilgrims and urging them forward without regard for capacity was a “misguided approach”.
It requested clarification from the TDB regarding the maximum number of pilgrims the hill shrine could accommodate at any given time and demanded comprehensive capacity statistics for each sector.
Considering the geographical constraints of the temple area, the bench emphasized that only a controlled number of devotees should be granted entry, in accordance with available space and safety protocols.
In light of growing public concern, Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan, following a Congress-led UDF meeting in the state capital, strongly denounced both the government and the Devaswom Board, indicating that hundreds of pilgrims were returning without being able to have darshan – an unprecedented occurrence in Sabarimala's history.
“The same individuals who orchestrated a global Ayyappa summit have now left devotees in profound distress,” he stated, adding that the mismanagement had left both devotees and observers astonished.
Satheesan announced that the Congress-led UDF would dispatch a delegation to Sabarimala to evaluate the situation firsthand and gather feedback from pilgrims.
He stressed that the government had “failed” to provide fundamental arrangements expected at one of the nation’s most revered pilgrimage sites.
As the pilgrimage season continues, both judicial scrutiny and political pressure are likely to escalate, compelling authorities to restore order and address the shortcomings.
Meanwhile, the Pinarayi Vijayan government appears to be taking refuge under the model code of conduct currently in effect due to the two-phase local body elections scheduled for December 9 and 11.
Point of View
It's crucial to acknowledge the profound implications of crowd management, especially at revered pilgrimage sites like Sabarimala. The chaos witnessed raises serious concerns not only about the preparedness of the Travancore Devaswom Board but also about the larger responsibility of the government to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims. Such situations must be addressed with urgency and transparency.
NationPress
19/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Kerala High Court to criticize the Devaswom Board?
The Kerala High Court criticized the Devaswom Board due to severe crowd mismanagement and inadequate arrangements that left thousands of pilgrims stranded at Sabarimala.
What were the court's observations regarding crowd control?
The court observed a complete lack of coordination in crowd control and questioned why preparations had not begun six months in advance.
What actions did the Leader of the Opposition take regarding this issue?
Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan condemned the government's handling of the situation and announced plans for a Congress-led UDF delegation to assess conditions at Sabarimala.
What is the significance of the Mandala-Makaravilakku season?
The Mandala-Makaravilakku season is a crucial two-month pilgrimage period that attracts a large influx of devotees to Sabarimala.
How is the government responding to the criticism?
The government appears to be taking cover under the model code of conduct in light of upcoming local body elections, which may be affecting its response to the situation.
