Wed Oct 16 15:24:45 UTC 2024: ## Kerala Government Backtracks: Pilgrims Without Online Booking Will Be Allowed at Sabarimala Temple

**Thiruvananthapuram:** In a significant change of plans, the Kerala government has announced that pilgrims visiting the Sabarimala temple during the upcoming season will be granted darshan even without online registration. This decision comes after widespread protests against an earlier proposal to restrict access only to those with virtual queue bookings.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan made the announcement in the state assembly, stating that facilities for smooth darshan would be ensured for all pilgrims, including those who haven’t registered online. He cited the success of the virtual queue system at other major pilgrim centers like Tirupati and explained that it was implemented in Sabarimala in 2011 for safety and identification purposes.

The government’s decision follows pressure from both the BJP and the opposition Congress-led UDF, who argued that relying solely on virtual queue booking would disadvantage devotees unfamiliar with technology. Even the CPI, a coalition partner in the ruling LDF, had voiced support for maintaining spot booking alongside the online system.

However, the chief minister did not clarify whether the spot booking system would be maintained as it was in the previous year. He did mention that an evaluation meeting held on October 5th had discussed allowing spot bookings, highlighting the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe and smooth pilgrimage experience for all.

The virtual queue system, which allows pilgrims to book darshan tickets and prasadam online, is considered a crucial tool for managing crowds and ensuring safety at the temple. The government has pledged to further strengthen the virtual queue system, aiming for a seamless experience during the pilgrimage season, which is set to begin in mid-November.

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