Declare Sabarimala pilgrimage centre: BJP

Prakash Javadekar, BJP spokesman and chairman of the delegation, told the media that the party would raise this in Parliament. He pointed out that pilgrims from all over the country visit the holy shrine presently.

Commenting on the proposed rail link to Sabarimala, Javadekar said the Sabari rail project which would facilitate easy access to Sabarimala needs to be implemented without delay. While Indian Railways generate huge income during Sabarimala pilgrimage season, it is offering little in return, he said.

Commenting on the security arrangements, Javadekar said more Central forces need to be deployed in Sabarimala hills.

On the development of Sabarimala, he said the Centre and Kerala governments should hold a discussion on the implementation of Sabarimala Master Plan. Necessary steps should be taken for getting clearance for the project from ministry of environment and forests, he said.