Tue Feb 03 16:06:49 UTC 2026: # Kerala High Court Addresses Environmental Concerns at Sabarimala Pilgrimage
The Story:
The Kerala High Court has instructed the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) to launch an awareness campaign about the harmful effects of chemical kumkum and prohibited plastic items among Sabarimala pilgrims, prior to the next pilgrimage season. This directive follows previous orders from the High Court that restricted the sale of shampoo sachets and chemical vermilion (kumkum) at Sabarimala, driven by significant ecological worries. The court initiated suo motu proceedings after learning that traditional methods of making vermilion had been replaced with chemical substitutes.
Key Points:
* The Kerala High Court has directed the TDB to educate pilgrims on the dangers of chemical kumkum and plastic items.
* This direction aims to mitigate ecological damage at Sabarimala.
* The court previously banned the sale of shampoo sachets and chemical vermilion at the site.
* The move stems from the replacement of traditionally made vermilion with chemical alternatives used during rituals like ‘pettathullal.’
Key Takeaways:
* The Kerala High Court is actively intervening to protect the environment at Sabarimala.
* There is a recognized issue of chemical pollutants impacting the pilgrimage site, specifically related to traditional practices.
* The Travancore Devaswom Board is being held accountable for promoting environmentally sound practices among pilgrims.
Impact Analysis:
This event signifies a shift towards sustainable pilgrimage practices at Sabarimala. The High Court’s proactive approach will likely:
* Lead to a greater emphasis on using environmentally friendly alternatives for traditional ritual items.
* Increase public awareness regarding the environmental impact of religious practices.
* Potentially serve as a precedent for similar interventions at other pilgrimage sites in India facing environmental challenges.
First Piper 