No Entry for ‘Fake’ Sponsors: TDB Tightens Rules on Unauthorised Fund Collection in Sabarimala’s Name
Thiruvananthapuram: The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has tightened regulations on sponsorships at temples, including Sabarimala, following concerns over misuse of sponsorship arrangements and the possibility of financial irregularities.
Under the revised policy, the Board will no longer issue letters or orders recommending or appointing individual sponsors. Devotees or organisations offering to fund rituals, offerings or construction works will not receive special privileges at temples. Sponsorships will be accepted only from reputed institutions and individuals with a credible background.
Before approving any sponsorship for temple rituals, offerings or construction works, the Board will conduct a detailed verification through its Devaswom Vigilance wing. The sponsor’s financial and social background, assets and other relevant details will be examined. Sponsorship will be accepted only after the authorities are satisfied that there is no hidden motive behind the offer.
The Board will also discontinue the practice of appointing intermediaries to facilitate offerings or sponsorships. The move is aimed at preventing unauthorised fundraising, the collection of large sums of money in the name of sponsorship and attempts to exert undue influence over temple administration.
The decision assumes particular significance ahead of the Sabarimala pilgrimage season, as Devaswom Vigilance had warned of the possibility of irregularities and unauthorised collections being repeated through sponsorship arrangements.
Singapore Sponsor’s VVIP Proposal Rejected
Sabarimala has reportedly witnessed several instances of alleged misuse of sponsorship arrangements, with some individuals collecting substantial amounts from devotees by promising special darshan facilities.
Recently, a person claiming to be a major businessman from Singapore approached the Board with an offer to sponsor new vehicles. In return, he sought special arrangements, including VVIP darshan and accommodation for 50 people. He also claimed that his projects had been inaugurated by Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam.
After the Board made it clear that no special privileges would be provided in return for sponsorship, the individual withdrew from the proposal.
TDB President K. Jayakumar said the practice of obtaining a Board-issued letter and using it to secure sponsors would no longer be permitted. He added that several institutions, including some banks, had expressed interest in sponsoring temple-related activities and that institutional sponsorships would be encouraged under the new system.