THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala government has made it clear that there is no move to withdraw or amend the affidavit it filed in the Supreme Court on women’s entry into the Sabarimala temple. Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan said the issue would only be revisited if the court specifically seeks a response from the state.
“The government has had no reason to think of such a step. It has to consider it only if the court seeks its response on any of the issues. Unless it is asked, the state cannot interfere,” Vasavan stated.
Opposition Demands
The clarification comes amid mounting pressure from opposition parties. Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan demanded that the state clarify whether it plans to withdraw the affidavit that supported the entry of women of all ages into Sabarimala. He also urged the government to withdraw pending cases against Ayyappa devotees who participated in protests and prayer processions during 2018–19.
Satheesan further alleged that the government’s current initiatives, including the organisation of the Global Ayyappa Sangamam, are politically motivated. “This government has undermined Sabarimala development for nearly a decade, unlike the Oommen Chandy government which took concrete steps,” he said.
Govt Clarification on Ayyappa Meet
Minister Vasavan stressed that the Global Ayyappa Sangamam is aimed at developing Sabarimala into a global pilgrimage hub and improving infrastructure. “The affidavit has no connection to the meet. The agenda is development, not controversy,” he said.
On the issue of pending cases, Vasavan recalled that the Chief Minister had earlier clarified only serious cases would continue, while others would be withdrawn with court approval.
Political Divide Persists
While the government has reiterated its stand of non-interference unless directed by the Supreme Court, the Opposition has accused it of political hypocrisy. Satheesan said the UDF has always stood with Ayyappa devotees and accused the ruling LDF of inaction on Sabarimala development.
As the debate intensifies, the government remains firm on its position, linking any further steps on the affidavit solely to directions from the Supreme Court.
