Kerala High Court Extends Sabarimala Special Commissioner’s Tenure by Two Years
Kochi: The Kerala High Court has extended the tenure of Sabarimala Special Commissioner R. Jayakrishnan by two years with effect from June 30, ensuring the continuation of oversight over the affairs of the hill shrine.
The court initiated suo motu proceedings in the matter as Mr. Jayakrishnan’s existing term was scheduled to expire on June 29. In its order, the High Court directed him to continue serving as the Sabarimala Special Commissioner while simultaneously discharging his duties as the Judge of the Special Court in Kottarakkara, which handles cases involving offences against members of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
The Special Commissioner plays a key role in overseeing the administration of Sabarimala and is mandated to submit periodic reports to the Devaswom Bench of the Kerala High Court. The post also carries the responsibility of monitoring the implementation of court directives relating to the temple’s functioning and management.
Mr. Jayakrishnan has been instrumental in bringing several critical issues concerning the shrine to the attention of the High Court. Notably, the alleged misappropriation of gold at the temple came to light following a report submitted by him. Over the years, he has also highlighted various concerns related to temple administration and the welfare of pilgrims visiting Sabarimala.
The extension of his tenure is expected to ensure continuity in the monitoring of temple affairs and the implementation of judicial directives concerning one of the country’s most prominent pilgrimage centres.