Kochi: Kerala Director General of Police Loknath Behera has instructed the officers to step up security at Sabarimala ahead of the upcoming Mandalakala-Makaravilakku season. His directive comes after security agencies warned that extremist and anti-national forces could pose a threat to the temple.
It has been pointed out that trouble-makers could travel to the shrine located in the woods, disguised as pilgrims. The intelligence and special branch wings of the state police have been asked to stay vigilant.
Prevent protests at Sabarimala, official requests HC
The Special Commissioner to Sabarimala has also warned that political forces are out to create trouble at Sabarimala. In a report to the Kerala High Court submitted on Saturday, M Manoj has sought orders to prevent political outfits and organisations of devotees from staging protests at Sabarimala, Pampa and Nilakkal in the name of protecting faith.
The official points out that nearly one lakh people will arrive at Sabarimala for worship once the temple reopens on November 16 for the Mandalakala-Makaravilakku season. “There's reason for apprehension that anti-social elements will hide behind devotees. The protests against the entry of young women will affect the pilgrimage,” he said.
The Commissioner has narrated developments at Sabarimala after the Sree Dharma Sastha Temple opened on November 5 for the Chithira Attam celebrations.
“Calamities could be avoided so far because the police were tactful. Some political parties and organisations are trying to instigate people,” he added.
“Violence might be triggered if police action causes injuries to pilgrims,” the commissioner warns in the report.
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