India
The Sri Lankan woman's attempt to enter the Sabarimala temple came two days after two women of menstruating age, Bindu and Kanakadurga, had entered the Lord Ayyappa shrine to offer prayers
Pathanamthitta: A 46-year-old Sri Lankan woman, who attempted to enter the Sabarimala temple, was allegedly denied permission by the Kerala Police, late on Thursday night.
The woman is identified as Sasikala, who claimed that she had walked up the 18 holy steps but was allegedly not allowed to go further.
"I had observed a 48-day vratha (penance) and wanted to hold prayers. I climbed the 18 holy steps when the police stopped me. I could not reach there (to the temple) and offer prayers," the woman said.
"I have my medical certificates, but they (police) denied me. I am a true Ayyappa devotee," she added.
The Sri Lankan woman's attempt to go into the famous shrine came two days after two women of menstruating age, Bindu and Kanakadurga, entered the Lord Ayyappa temple to offer prayers.
Following this, the state has turned into a war zone where protesters were seen pelting stones, throwing crude bombs and blocking national highways.
Several Ayyappa devotees and other political parties held protest marches in several parts of the state against the entry of women into the shrine.
Three BJP workers were stabbed in Thrissur district while enforcing the shutdown call by Sabarimala Karma Samithi. The victims are identified as Sujith, Rajeesh, Sreejith and are admitted to a private hospital.
Also watch: Woman journalist, camera person reach Pamba; say no intention to visit Sabarimala
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