Kerala HC Appoints Justice V G Arun as Sabarimala Panel Chief
Kochi: The Kerala High Court has appointed former judge Justice V G Arun as the chairman of the Sabarimala High Power Committee, filling the vacancy created by the demise of Justice S Siri Jagan.
The decision was taken by a bench comprising Justices V Raja Vijayaraghavan and K V Jayakumar, based on a report submitted by the committee highlighting the urgent need for leadership. The report noted that the committee’s functioning had been significantly affected following the death of Justice Siri Jagan on January 24, rendering it unable to effectively carry out its responsibilities.
Emphasising the importance of the role, the court observed that the chairman is central to the implementation of the Sabarimala Master Plan. The chairman heads all meetings, oversees the committee’s functioning, and ensures the implementation of the master plan.
The court further underlined that the chairman is required to submit status reports to the court every two months through the registrar general. Additionally, the position serves as a crucial link between the judiciary, the state government, and the Travancore Devaswom Board, ensuring coordinated efforts in the management and development of the Sabarimala temple infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the High Power Committee was originally constituted by the court in 2009 following directions from the Supreme Court of India. The apex court had mandated the preparation of a comprehensive master plan for development activities at Sabarimala, including the allocation and implementation of project funds.
The appointment of Justice V G Arun is expected to restore continuity in the committee’s operations and expedite the implementation of projects under the master plan.