Forums seek review of SC verdict on Sabarimala

Demanding the review of Supreme Court’s verdict on allowing women of all ages to enter Sabarimala Temple, the Sabarimale Ayyappaswamy Samrakshana Samithi and Muthappa Temple Samithi staged a mammoth protest rally in Madikeri on Friday.

After offering prayers at Muthappa temple, the protesters took out a procession which passed through Mahadevapete, Chowki and General Thimmaiah Circle before culminating in front of the DC’s office. The devotees, who participated in the procession, sang Ayyappaswamy Bhajans throughout the procession path.

Samrakshana Samithi head Mahesh Kumar said, “The Supreme Court’s verdict has hurt the sentiments of thousands of devotees. There is a need to preserve the sanctity of Sabarimala temple. The tradition is being followed from time immemorial. There is a need to review the verdict.”

Committee member Dr Manohar Patkar alleged that there is a conspiracy by those who opposed the religion behind the Supreme Court’s verdict. Hindu society has always respected women. Women in the age group of 10 to 50 years are not allowed inside the Sabarimala temple. However, there were a few age restrictions, which women had to follow.”

BJP leader T S Prakash accused the Kerala government of failing to understand the emotions of the devotees. A representation will be sent to the Kerala government through Kodagu district administration to ensure that the sanctity of Sabarimala is preserved, he said.

CMC member Anitha Poovaiah said, “Ayyappaswamy Temple has a history of several centuries. There is a need to impress upon the court on the belief of the Hindus.”