Nothing will happen without the Thantri’s knowledge at Sabarimala, says V.N. Vasavan
Minister V.N. Vasavan stated that Sabarimala is not a place to demonstrate activism and that an affidavit will be submitted in the Supreme Court only while safeguarding the interests of the devotee community. He also added that the stand previously taken by former Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran on this issue was correct.
The minister said in Kochi that the government wishes to move forward by adopting a common position and that no decision hurting the sentiments of devotees will be taken by the government.
He pointed out that during the last Mandala season, no opportunity was allowed anywhere at Sabarimala to violate traditional rituals and practices. As earlier clarified by the Chief Minister and the Law Minister, the government’s actions are being carried out by keeping devotees together. Vasavan reiterated the government’s position by endorsing Kadakampally Surendran’s earlier statement that activism should not be carried out at Sabarimala.
The minister also responded to controversies related to the alleged removal of gold from the Sabarimala Sannidhanam. He said that it is common sense that nothing can be removed from the Sannidhanam without the knowledge or consent of the Thantri (chief priest). He further added that the supreme authority of the Thantri in matters related to temple rituals must be respected and that everyone should clearly understand this.