Sabarimala becoming a nightmare even for devotees; Devaswom Board President P.S. Prashanth admits fear and uncertainty
Thiruvananthapuram: Travancore Devaswom Board President P.S. Prashanth has voiced serious concerns over the recurring setbacks surrounding the Sabarimala temple. Speaking amid the ongoing gold-plating controversy, Prashanth said even tantric matters at the temple are facing obstacles, making the situation unprecedented compared to other shrines.
“Even devotees are afraid to come to Sabarimala. They are afraid to offer anything. Sabarimala has become a nightmare,” Prashanth remarked. He added that without a precise framework to manage affairs, day-to-day developments at the temple would remain uncertain. Though he refrained from naming those responsible for obstructing temple activities, he maintained that the Board had given clear responses to the court regarding the gold-plating issue and welcomed any external agency’s scrutiny.
The controversy relates to the gold-plated coverings of the Dwarapalaka idols, which were sent to Chennai for repair. The Kerala High Court had earlier directed that the ornaments be brought back immediately, observing that the Board acted without securing mandatory approval from the Sabarimala Special Commissioner and the Court.
A division bench comprising Justice V. Raja Vijayaraghavan and Justice K.V. Jayakumar also issued notices to the Travancore Devaswom Commissioner, Sabarimala Executive Officer, Thiruvabharanam Commissioner, and others, seeking explanations on the decision. The bench further ordered the submission of related files and documents.
However, in a relief to the Board, the High Court Recently allowed repair works to continue, provided all legal procedures are strictly followed