The Kerala High Court has declared that Sabarimala, a revered site for devotees, must remain free from disruptions caused by strikes, especially during the spiritually significant Mandala-Makaravilakku festival season. The Court criticized a flash strike by dolly operators at Pampa, who protested the introduction of prepaid counters for their services by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB).
A bench of Justices Anil K Narendran and Muralee Krishna S underscored that Sabarimala’s sanctity as a place of worship must take precedence over grievances. The judges emphasized that such protests during a peak pilgrimage season create undue hardship for devotees, particularly the elderly, disabled, and children who rely on dolly services to traverse the steep trek from Pamba to the shrine.
The Court noted the dolly operators’ critical role but firmly opposed their decision to strike during this pivotal time. “If grievances existed, they should have been raised well before the commencement of the festival season,” the bench remarked, urging proactive dialogue instead of disruptive tactics.
Referencing the Travancore-Cochin Hindu Religious Institutions Act, the Court reiterated the TDB’s duty to maintain Sabarimala’s integrity as a sacred site while ensuring seamless facilities for worshippers. Furthermore, with Sabarimala designated a Special Security Zone under the Kerala Police Act, crowd management and public safety were deemed paramount.
To safeguard pilgrims’ right to an undisturbed spiritual journey, the Court directed authorities, including the TDB and police officials, to prevent any strikes or protests along key routes. It also ordered detailed reports on compliance by December 9, with further hearings scheduled soon.
This decisive intervention reinforces Sabarimala’s role as a sanctuary for worship, unmarred by external disruptions during its most cherished festivals.
