Pampa: The prohibitory orders at Sabarimala and nearby areas, which were in force since November 3, have been extended till November 30.
District collector P.B. Nooh on Monday extended the orders under section 144 of the criminal procedure code barring the assembly of more than four people at places like Nilakkal, Pampa and Elavungal on the basis of the reports filed by Additional District Magistrate (ADM) and police. Though there was no major violence, several persons had to be arrested for creating disturbances at various places, including Sannidhanam, during the past days.
Earlier, the police had told the collector that the ban orders should be extended till January 14, when the temple closes after the Makaravilakku season, citing law and order situation.
The Kerala High Court, after hearing three different petitions, had ordered the government to remove all restrictions imposed near the temple. However, according to the police, the situation is still volatile.
Opposition Leader Ramesh Chennithala had written a letter to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan last week asking him to revoke the ban orders. He said the restrictions would “destroy Sabarimala and drive the devotees away.” He also pointed out that for the first time in Sabarimala, there has been a decrease in the flow of devotees. Mr. Chennithala had also shot off a letter to the Governor.
There was a steady flow of devotees on Monday compared to the previous days. As many as 48,762 devotees had darshan till 8 p.m. which is the highest number since the season began.
