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Kerala High Court Questions Sabarimala Crowd Management
The Kerala High Court on Wednesday pulled up the state government over poor crowd control at Sabarimala temple, warning of risks to devotees during the ongoing pilgrimage season. The court ordered the state to submit a detailed report on measures taken to prevent stampedes and ensure smooth darshan.
Court’s Strong Rebuke
A division bench of Justices Anil K. Narendran and P. G. Ajithkumar heard a petition citing dangerous overcrowding, with pilgrims waiting 12+ hours in cramped conditions. The judges slammed the government’s lack of preparedness, demanding answers on past recommendations and current safeguards.
“Why are devotees suffering? What steps have been taken to prevent chaos?” the bench asked.
Pilgrims Struggle Amid Poor Facilities
Videos of unmanaged queues and complaints of scarce water, toilets, and medical aid have gone viral. Many devotees, like Tamil Nadu’s Rajesh, expressed frustration: “The administration is unprepared—faith shouldn’t mean hardship.”
Govt’s Defense & Opposition Criticism
The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) blamed unexpected footfall, but critics say preparations were inadequate. The government cited staggered darshan and extra police, but the court called these efforts ineffective.
Opposition parties (BJP/Congress) accused the Left government of negligence, with demands for the Devaswom Minister’s resignation.
Past Tragedies & Urgent Warnings
The 2011 Pullumedu stampede (106 deaths) looms large. Despite committee reports suggesting better pathways and emergency services, progress remains slow. The court warned: “Lives can’t be risked by delays.”
Next Steps
The state has 3 days to submit its report. The court proposed a monitoring committee as pilgrim numbers peak during Mandalam-Makaravilakku.
Conclusion
The High Court’s scrutiny highlights systemic failures at Sabarimala. With devotees’ safety at stake, the state must act swiftly—before another disaster strikes.
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