After facing political backlash, the Kerala Government has decided to maintain the on-the-spot booking facility for Sabarimala Temple during the upcoming pilgrimage season. The decision was made following objections from Congress, BJP, and a ruling alliance party. The Chief Minister also announced that necessary measures have been taken to ensure a smooth pilgrimage for those without online registration, such as setting up ambulances and emergency medical centers.
Sabarimala Pilgrimage: Virtual Queue and On-the-Spot Booking
The Sabarimala Temple in Kerala is one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in India, attracting millions of devotees annually. The pilgrimage season, which runs from November to January, has traditionally seen long queues and overcrowding.
Virtual Queue System
In 2018, the Kerala Government introduced a virtual queue system for Sabarimala pilgrimage. The system allowed devotees to book their turn online and avoid physical queues. However, the initiative faced criticism from various political parties and religious groups.
On-the-Spot Booking Controversy
For the upcoming 2023 pilgrimage season, the government initially announced that it would discontinue the on-the-spot booking facility. This decision sparked widespread protests and accusations of discrimination against pilgrims who lacked access to technology or internet.
Government U-turn
Faced with political backlash, the Kerala Government decided to maintain the on-the-spot booking facility. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced that necessary measures had been taken to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience for both registered and unregistered devotees.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Is on-the-spot booking still available for Sabarimala pilgrimage? Yes, the Kerala Government has decided to maintain the on-the-spot booking facility.
2. How do I book my Sabarimala pilgrimage online? You can book your pilgrimage online through the official website of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB).
3. Is it mandatory to book online for Sabarimala pilgrimage? No, it is not mandatory to book online. You can still visit the temple by booking on the spot.
4. What are the measures taken by the government to ensure a smooth pilgrimage? The government has set up ambulances, emergency medical centers, and other infrastructure to facilitate the pilgrimage.
5. Are there any restrictions on who can visit the Sabarimala Temple? Historically, women of childbearing age (10-50 years old) were not allowed to enter the temple. However, this tradition has been contested and is currently under legal review.
After heavy rains in Chennai, Deputy Chief Minister, Udhayanidhi Stalin, distributed food and relief materials to affected areas and oversaw relief work in various parts of the city. He assured that floodwaters have receded in areas under the Greater Chennai Corporation and refuted Opposition leader, Edappadi K. Palaniswami's demand for a white paper on the government's measures. Udhayanidhi praised the coordination of officials and also visited the Chembarambakkam lake to review the water level and instructed continuous monitoring.
In a series of false bomb threats to Indian airlines, a teenager, his father, and another person were issued a notice by the Mumbai police to join questioning. The threats, which were posted on social media platform X, targeted three international flights originating from Mumbai. Following investigations, the connection to these threats was traced to Rajnandgaon, and the authorities have taken legal action to prevent further misuse and ensure the safety of passengers and airport operations.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau testified before a public inquiry into foreign interference in federal electoral processes and democratic institutions, where he accused the Indian government of interfering in Canada's safety and sovereignty. He mentioned that there was only intelligence, but no hard evidence, to support the claims of Indian government agents being involved in the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar last year. Trudeau also stated that the Indian response to these allegations was to double down on attacks against his government and arbitrarily eject Canadian diplomats from India.
The Congress government in India has recently drawn criticism for its decision to withdraw all cases related to the 2022 violence in Hubballi. The incident, which involved clashes between a young man and a Muslim community in the area, had resulted in multiple arrests and charges under terror-related acts. However, after a change in government in 2023, the Siddaramaiah administration has decided to withdraw these cases, sparking debate and controversy. While some defend the government's decision, others express concerns about setting a dangerous precedent.
Badruddin Ajmal, All India United Democratic Front Chief has stirred a political controversy by claiming that the new Parliament building may have been constructed on Waqf land. He has called for an investigation into the matter and expressed disapproval over the Waqf Bill, highlighting that all secular political parties have boycotted the Joint Parliamentary Committee formed to review the bill. Ajmal has announced that the Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind will conduct a survey of Waqf Board lands in Assam to challenge the bill.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar responds to criticism from Opposition parties and citizens for the state government's handling of the heavy rain in Bengaluru, stating that it is impossible to control nature. He also announces a holiday for schools as a precautionary measure and plans to hold meetings with officials to survey the situation. Meanwhile, Bengaluru Central MP PC Mohan urges the state government to take action to improve infrastructure and disaster management in light of the city's ongoing rainfall.
The central government has given farmers a reason to celebrate this Diwali by announcing a 6.5% increase in the minimum support price for wheat, along with increases for other important crops such as mustard and chana. This decision was made after considering factors such as inflation, wheat stocks, and global prices. Additionally, central government employees and pensioners can also look forward to a festive bonus, with the Union Cabinet approving an increase in dearness allowance and relief.
The upcoming bypoll in Wayanad Lok Sabha seat has gained significant political significance as Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra prepares for her electoral debut in Kerala. This could potentially unite the Gandhi family in Parliament for the first time, with all three members serving together. This move comes after the Congress party's decision to vacate the Wayanad constituency, opening the door for Priyanka Gandhi. The bypoll is scheduled for November 13 and will coincide with the first phase of polling for the Jharkhand Assembly.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a touching tribute to former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on his birth anniversary, reflecting on his life as a source of inspiration for all Indians. In a post on X, PM Modi praised Kalam for his courage in facing challenges and highlighted his remarkable achievements, including being awarded the title of ‘Rashtra Ratna’ before becoming President of India. The Prime Minister also shared a video featuring photos of the two leaders together, showcasing their close bond.