The Kerala government has announced that it will allow spot booking for pilgrims visiting the Lord Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala, amid protests against the initial mandate for online registration. CM Pinarayi Vijayan stated that facilities for smooth darshan will be provided to those without prior online registration, while also emphasising the importance of the successful virtual queue system. The government's decision comes after discussions on improving the pilgrimage experience for devotees during the upcoming season.
Sabarimala Temple Reopens with Spot Booking Amidst Protests
Background:
The Sabarimala Temple in Kerala, India, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, has been a pilgrimage site for centuries. In 2018, the Supreme Court of India lifted a centuries-old ban on women of menstruating age (10-50 years) from entering the temple. This decision sparked widespread protests and legal challenges.
Recent Developments:
Ahead of the upcoming pilgrimage season, the Kerala government announced that it would allow spot booking for pilgrims visiting the temple. This decision came after protests against the initial mandate for online registration.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that the government recognized the difficulties faced by some devotees in making online registration. He emphasized the importance of facilitating a smooth darshan (pilgrimage) for all.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. Why is spot booking being allowed at Sabarimala Temple? Answer: To address concerns regarding the challenges some devotees face in online registration and ensure access for all.
2. Will spot booking be available for all pilgrims? Answer: Yes, spot booking will be available for both pilgrims with and without prior online registration.
3. What is the virtual queue system and will it still be in place? Answer: The virtual queue system, implemented to manage crowds, will continue. However, the government emphasizes the importance of using it to avoid inconvenience.
4. What safety measures are being taken for pilgrims? Answer: The government has deployed additional police personnel, installed surveillance cameras, and implemented crowd control measures to ensure a safe pilgrimage.
5. What are the rules for women's entry into the temple? Answer: The ban on women of menstruating age remains in force as per the Supreme Court order. However, the government has stated that women who have undergone menopause or are under the age of 10 or over 50 will be allowed entry.
The Kerala government's decision to allow spot booking at Sabarimala Temple is an attempt to balance the need to facilitate a smooth pilgrimage with the concerns raised by protesters. It remains to be seen how the implementation of this policy will affect the upcoming season and the ongoing debate surrounding women's entry into the temple.
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