Kerala High Court Mandates Pilgrim Guidelines for Sabarimala to Combat Plastic and Synthetic Kumkum
In a significant move to preserve the sanctity and environment of the revered Sabarimala temple, the Kerala High Court has issued a directive to the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB). The court has urged the board to formulate and disseminate necessary guidelines and directives aimed at sensitizing pilgrims about the use of natural kumkum and the prohibition of plastic products during the forthcoming pilgrimage seasons.
Court Order Based on Suo Motu Petition and Environmental Concerns
The bench comprising Justice V Raja Vijayaraghavan and Justice K V Jayakumar delivered this order while closing a suo motu petition. This petition was initiated based on a detailed report submitted by the Sabarimala special commissioner, which highlighted various facilities and issues at the Sabarimala edathavalams. During the hearings, counsel for the Erumeli grama panchayat brought to the court's attention critical environmental concerns, including the indiscriminate disposal of small plastic shampoo sachets in the area. Additionally, the increasing use of synthetic colored kumkum powder by pilgrims and devotees during the Pettathullal ritual was flagged as a pressing issue.
Enforcement Actions and Seizures Following Court Directions
Pursuant to the directions issued by the bench, routine inspections were conducted by competent statutory authorities. These inspections led to the seizure of synthetic kumkum, and in certain instances, criminal proceedings were initiated against offenders. The proactive measures underscore the court's commitment to enforcing environmental and health regulations at the pilgrimage site.
Drug Inspector's Report and Ongoing Monitoring Efforts
The drug inspector from Kottayam appeared in person before the court and submitted a report indicating that, with the conclusion of the Mandalam-Makaravilakku festival season, no sale or use of kumkum was currently being observed in the area. The inspector further assured the court that continuous monitoring would be carried out to effectively curb the sale of synthetic kumkum. He emphasized that appropriate legal action would be initiated whenever violations are detected, ensuring compliance with the court's directives.
Legal Proceedings and Closure of Petition
It was also informed that the seized articles had been forwarded to the judicial first-class magistrate court in Kanjirappally. The proceedings initiated in this regard will follow their due course in accordance with the law. In light of these submissions and the actions taken, the High Court decided to close further proceedings in the petition, expressing satisfaction with the steps implemented to address the issues raised.
This ruling highlights the judiciary's role in promoting sustainable pilgrimage practices and protecting the ecological balance of sacred sites like Sabarimala.
