K Jayakumar Appointed as Travancore Devaswom Board President
Thiruvananthapuram: In a move aimed at restoring credibility to the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) and addressing the controversy surrounding the Sabarimala gold smuggling scandal, the Pinarayi Vijayan government has appointed former Chief Secretary K Jayakumar IAS as the new president of the temple administration body. The appointment, finalized by the CPM state secretariat, is viewed as a strategic step to bring stability and administrative integrity to the Devaswom Board, which has been under intense public and judicial scrutiny in recent months.
Jayakumar, a veteran bureaucrat known for his administrative skill and cultural involvement, said his immediate priority will be to ensure the smooth conduct of the Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season, beginning on November 17. “The offer came at an unexpected time, but my focus will be to make sure that devotees have a peaceful and satisfying pilgrimage,” he said, adding that measures will be taken to prevent irregularities and strengthen temple management.
Referring indirectly to the challenges surrounding the post, Jayakumar remarked, “Not all crowns have thorns. It depends on how you wear it,” signalling confidence in handling the responsibilities that come with the position. He also emphasised that his tenure would focus on transparency, professionalism, and accountability across all temples under TDB’s jurisdiction.
A retired IAS officer, Jayakumar has earlier served as Sabarimala Special Officer, Tourism Secretary, Vice-Chancellor of Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University, and Chairman of the Sabarimala Master Plan. Known also as a writer, lyricist, and painter.