Kerala High Court Directs Strict Crowd Control Measures Ahead of President Droupadi Murmu’s Visit to Sabarimala
KOCHI: The Kerala High Court on Thursday directed the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) and the state police to ensure that comprehensive and effective crowd management measures are implemented well in advance of President Droupadi Murmu’s scheduled visit to the Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple.
The directive came while the court permitted VVIP convoy movement for the President’s visit on October 22, 2025, subject to strict adherence to the Union Home Ministry’s Blue Book security guidelines.
A report submitted by the Special Commissioner informed the court about a letter from the District Police Chief, Pathanamthitta, highlighting that elaborate security arrangements, as mandated by the Blue Book Protocol, must be in place in view of the high-profile visit.
According to the report, detailed logistical and security arrangements are being made to facilitate the smooth passage of the President’s convoy to Sannidhanam through both the Swami Ayyappan Road and the traditional trekking route (contingency route). These measures will apply during both the rehearsal on October 16 and the official visit on October 22.
The report also noted that five four-wheel-drive vehicles of the Kerala Police have been earmarked for use in the VVIP convoy. Additionally, a police ambulance will accompany the motorcade as part of the emergency response protocol.
Taking the report into consideration, the High Court granted permission for the convoy movement, clarifying that the approval is provided solely in accordance with and subject to compliance with the Blue Book guidelines.