Wed Oct 16 13:20:50 UTC 2024: ## Kerala’s Left Government Faces Backlash Over Sabarimala Online Booking Policy

**Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala:** The Kerala government’s decision to implement online-only bookings for pilgrims visiting the Sabarimala shrine during the upcoming Mandalam-Makaravilakku season has sparked widespread protests and political controversy.

The ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) government, led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist), has defended the move as necessary to regulate the large influx of pilgrims and prevent overcrowding. However, the policy has been met with opposition from both within the LDF and across the political spectrum.

The CPM, while traditionally wary of taking rigid stances on religious matters, has faced criticism for the online-only policy, which they argue denies devotees the opportunity for “spot bookings.” Their coalition partner, the Communist Party of India (CPI), has also publicly voiced concerns and advocated for the reintroduction of spot bookings.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has labelled the online-only policy a “conspiracy” to sabotage the pilgrimage season, while Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan has urged the government to reconsider its decision.

Kerala Devaswom Minister VN Vasavan has defended the move, emphasizing the need to manage the daily influx of pilgrims, which can exceed 80,000, presenting logistical challenges.

The decision to limit devotees to 80,000 daily and implement online-only bookings was taken following last year’s chaotic situation, where over one lakh devotees flooded Pathanamthitta district, leading to widespread criticism of “crowd mismanagement” by the government.

Veteran journalist MG Radhakrishnan points out that the Sabarimala issue is “politically orchestrated,” highlighting the inherent tension between the communist government and religious institutions. He notes that the history of the Communist Party in Kerala, often perceived as non-believers, has led to a perception of conflict in managing Hindu temples.

The Sabarimala shrine holds significant socio-economic and cultural importance for Kerala. Its pilgrimage season contributes significantly to the local economy and attracts a massive number of devotees. Its unique rituals, challenging trek, and spiritual mystique make it a highly revered site.

However, the shrine has also been at the center of numerous controversies, particularly after the Supreme Court’s 2018 judgment allowing entry for women of menstruating age, a decision met with fierce opposition from certain groups.

The current online-only booking policy has once again placed the Kerala government in a difficult position, forcing them to navigate the delicate balance between governance and religious sensitivities.

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