In a significant move to manage the heavy pilgrim flow and ensure safety, the police at Sabarimala have issued specific instructions for women and minor devotees ascending the sacred Pathinettam Padi, the holy 18 steps. The directive mandates that these devotees use the sides of the steps rather than the center.
New Directive for Smoother Pilgrim Assistance
The primary reason behind this instruction is to facilitate the police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel stationed on either side of the steps. By using the sides, it becomes significantly easier for the officers to physically assist and support devotees who may be tired or need help during the arduous climb. This measure is aimed at enhancing crowd management and preventing accidents during the peak pilgrimage season.
The official announcement of this new guideline was made by Sannidhanam Special Officer P Balakrishnan Nair. He inaugurated the announcement via megaphone from a position below the Pathinettam Padi. To ensure the message reaches devotees from various linguistic backgrounds, police and RAF personnel will intermittently announce the instruction in four major South Indian languages: Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada.
Strict Ban on Photography and Videography
In a separate but equally important enforcement, the police are rigorously implementing a prohibition on photography and videography in key areas of the temple complex. This action is based on a directive from the High Court.
The ban strictly prohibits shooting photos or recording videos using mobile phones and other cameras at the following sensitive locations:
- The Pathinettam Padi (holy 18 steps)
- The Sopanam (temple approach)
- The Nadumuttam (central courtyard) of the Ayyappa Temple
- The entire premises of the Malikappuram Temple
The authorities have issued a stern warning that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found violating this prohibition. This step is intended to maintain the sanctity and decorum of the pilgrimage and prevent any disruptions or security concerns.
Ensuring Order and Sanctity
These combined measures highlight the administration's focused efforts on streamlining the pilgrimage experience at one of India's most prominent and crowded sacred sites. The directive for women and minors to use the sides of the steps is a practical crowd-control solution, while the strict enforcement of the photography ban underscores a commitment to upholding judicial orders and the spiritual atmosphere of Sabarimala.
The police presence, including the specialized Rapid Action Force, remains heightened to manage the lakhs of devotees and ensure that all activities proceed smoothly, safely, and in accordance with the established rules and traditions.
