Kerala High Court Greenlights Global Ayyappa Sangamam with Strict Rules for Sabarimala Devotees
In a big decision for Sabarimala temple fans, the Kerala High Court has allowed the Travancore Devaswom Board to host the ‘Global Ayyappa Sangamam’ on September 20. But there’s a catch—the court has set tough conditions to protect the temple’s sanctity, the environment, and the rights of regular devotees.
The event faced strong opposition in court. Several petitions challenged the Global Ayyappa Sangamam, claiming organizers include people who don’t follow Lord Ayyappa’s traditions and have even spoken against Sanatan Dharma. Petitioners worried that holding such a gathering near sacred spots like Sabarimala breaks laws against non-religious events close to temples. They also pointed out issues like possible misuse of temple funds and the guest list, which mostly features political leaders instead of true Ayyappa devotees who observe strict penance and rituals.
On the sponsorship front, petitioners argued that all money collected in Lord Ayyappa’s name belongs to the deity and should only go toward temple needs. The Kerala government pushed back, saying the event doesn’t violate the Constitution or Article 14, which ensures equality. They added that no public money from the state or Devaswom Board will fund it—everything comes from sponsors.
The High Court bench weighed in with a balanced ruling. It okayed the Global Ayyappa Sangamam but made sure safeguards are in place. Organizers must keep the holy Pampa area clean and avoid any harm to nature. Regular pilgrims’ rights come first—no special perks for event participants at Sabarimala. Plus, the court ordered a full income and expenditure report within 45 days to keep finances transparent.
This verdict arrives amid heated political debates in Kerala. The opposition Congress-led UDF slams the ruling CPI(M)-led government for using Sabarimala for political gains. The Left dismisses that, calling the summit a way to bring Ayyappa believers together against communal forces.
By tying approval to these rules, the Kerala High Court strikes a fair deal: the event moves forward, but accountability, eco-protection, and devotee rights stay front and center for Sabarimala temple traditions.
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