Wed Oct 16 13:20:52 UTC 2024: ## Sabarimala Spot Booking Ban Sparks Outrage, Political Backlash

**Thiruvananthapuram/Kozhikode/Pathanamthitta:** The Kerala government’s decision to eliminate spot bookings for Sabarimala darshan has ignited widespread protests and political controversy, evoking memories of the 2018 agitation against women’s entry to the temple.

Several political parties, including the ruling LDF’s ally CPI, have vehemently opposed the move, fearing potential exploitation by the RSS and widespread unrest among devotees. The Opposition Congress has also joined the chorus, with leaders like VD Satheesan and K Sudhakaran warning of dire consequences for restricting darshan to online bookings only.

The CPM, facing mounting pressure, has urged the government to reconsider the decision, emphasizing the need for both online and spot bookings to ensure access for all pilgrims. CPM state secretary MV Govindan accused the BJP of attempting to instigate riots at Sabarimala by manipulating religious sentiments for political gains.

Meanwhile, the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has been caught in the crossfire. While a section within the TDB favors continuing spot bookings this year, the board awaits the government’s final call on the matter.

The controversy has further escalated with several protests, including one by the Sabarimala Ayyappa Seva Samajam in front of the Pathanamthitta Collectorate. The group criticized the decision, accusing the government and the Devaswom Board of being clueless about the issue.

The government’s decision has been met with a mix of disappointment and anger from devotees, particularly those from other states, who fear facing difficulties in accessing darshan without the option of spot booking.

The situation remains tense as the government grapples with the political fallout of its decision, and the potential for religious unrest looms large.

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