Angry and resolute, thousands of protesters are gathering at Sabarimala, raising voice against the legal sanction given to entry of women at the temple which marks Lord Ayappa's celibacy. Around 1,000 police personnel have been deployed. The local tribal community are on a tight vigil to ensure women do not breach tradition and enter
Kochi: The security is beefed around Sabarimala as it prepares to open its gates for women of all ages, following the landmark verdict of Supreme Court.
Earlier, women of the menstrual age were not allowed inside the shrine because its residing deity Ayyappa is celibate.
Around 1,000 police personnel have been deployed to manage the crowds and maintain law and order. There were also reports that members of the local tribal community were keeping a tight vigil to ensure that women were not allowed to enter.
Meanwhile, chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said, "We will ensure security to all. Nobody will be allowed to take the law into their hands. My government will not allow any violence in the name of Sabarimala.”
Here are the top highlights:
1. Inspector generals (IGs) district police chiefs have been asked to take strict action against those who block traffic.
2. In Nilackal, protesters were forcefully removed in the morning on Wednesday. Pathnamthitta district police SP said that no protesters will be allowed in the area.
3. Though Devaswom board president A Padmakumar said that anybody who comes to pray will be allowed inside, he also mentioned that there are no facilities for women devotees.
4. Tantri family said that they will sit in protest at Pamba if women are allowed in the shrine
5. Three female police personnel stopped Rahul Easwar, a member of the Tantri family, on their way to Sabarimala temple. However, he and other devotees were later allowed.
