Minister Emphasizes TDB's Independence in Global Ayyappa Sangamam Financial Matters
In a significant statement regarding the ongoing controversy surrounding the Global Ayyappa Sangamam, Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan has clarified that the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) holds full responsibility for releasing the event's accounts and managing its financial transactions. The minister made these remarks in response to queries raised in the legislative assembly, highlighting the autonomous nature of the board's operations.
Government Cannot Interfere in TDB's Financial Affairs
Vasavan explicitly stated that neither the government nor his ministry can intervene directly in the financial matters of programmes conducted by the TDB. "The government cannot interfere in the financial transactions of the programmes conducted by TDB. The board will clarify and account for all matters related to the current controversy," he asserted. This underscores the board's statutory independence, which is designed to prevent political influence over religious and cultural activities.
The minister's comments come amid public scrutiny over the financial handling of the Global Ayyappa Sangamam, a large-scale cultural and religious event. Vasavan emphasized that the TDB operates independently, and it is the board's duty to provide transparency and accountability in all financial dealings associated with the event.
Details on Reimbursement and Assembly Query
Vasavan provided specific details regarding a reimbursement issue that was raised in the assembly. He explained that he responded to a question from MLA Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan about whether advance money taken for the Ayyappa Sangamam had been reimbursed. "Based on the information provided by TDB, it was replied that Rs 3 crore was reimbursed on Oct 17, 2025," the minister said. This reimbursement is a key point in the financial discussions, and Vasavan reiterated that the TDB is the authoritative source for such information.
Furthermore, the minister addressed questions about the participation and payment of Nandagovindam Bhajans in the event. "It is the responsibility of TDB to explain whether Nandagovindam Bhajans participated in the event or were paid," he stated, reinforcing the board's role in managing cultural programme funding. Vasavan noted that a bhajan took place before his arrival at the event but expressed uncertainty about whether it was performed by Nandagovindam Bhajans, adding, "Since TDB is responsible for funding cultural programmes, I do not enquire into these matters."
Overall Success of the Event
Despite the financial controversies, Minister Vasavan expressed satisfaction with the overall execution of the Global Ayyappa Sangamam. He praised the event as a success, indicating that it achieved its cultural and religious objectives. This positive note suggests that while financial accountability is crucial, the event's broader impact should not be overlooked.
The minister's statements aim to clarify the jurisdictional boundaries between the government and the TDB, ensuring that the board's autonomy is respected while calling for transparency from the board itself. As the controversy unfolds, stakeholders await further explanations from the Travancore Devaswom Board regarding the detailed accounts and financial decisions related to the Global Ayyappa Sangamam.
