Devotees Condemn Disrespect Shown to Sabarimala 18 Steps
Subject: Disrespectful Conduct by Police Officer on Pathinettam Padi During Niraputhari Mahotsavam – Urgent Action Requested On 30th July 2025, during the auspicious occasion of Niraputhari Mahotsavam, a disturbing incident was observed at Sabarimala. A police officer was seen standing directly on the sacred Pathinettam Padi, casually rubbing his foot on it while engaging in conversation with another officer. While other officers were positioned on designated duty stands, this particular individual’s actions were in complete disregard of the sanctity of the holy site. Video footage of the incident, recorded by a few concerned devotees, has since come to light. This has deeply hurt the sentiments of devotees across the world. It is disheartening that such irreverence continues—last year, police officers were seen sitting on the sacred elephant and tiger idols, using Pathinettam Padi as a photo spot, and even creating social media reels while climbing it. We urge the Travancore Devaswom Board and concerned authorities to take strict disciplinary action against such behavior. Pathinettam Padi is not merely a set of steps—it is a revered spiritual symbol and the ultimate destination for lakhs of devotees worldwide. Disrespect of this sacred place should never be tolerated or repeated. We sincerely hope that appropriate measures will be taken to preserve the sanctity of Sabarimala and ensure such incidents do not recur.
Credits: Maruti Swami Belagavi Karnataka