A Division Bench, comprising Justice Anil K. Narendran and Justice Muralee Krishna S, emphasized that such actions should not be overlooked.
KOCHI: The Kerala High Court on Friday (6th Dec) issued sharp criticism against the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) and state police for allegedly granting “VIP” treatment to actor Dileep, the eighth accused in the 2017 actor abduction and sexual assault case, during his recent visit to Sabarimala.
A Division Bench, comprising Justice Anil K. Narendran and Justice Muralee Krishna S, emphasized that such actions should not be overlooked.
The court expressed dismay over Dileep’s access to the Sannidhanam with police escort, questioning, “How are individuals granted police-protected darshan? What is happening at Sabarimala?” It reminded that Sabarimala is a designated special security zone, noting that many elderly devotees and children waiting in long queues were denied a proper darshan due to the VIP visit.
The court further asked, “Who allowed Dileep and others to remain in front of the Sreekovil during the sacred Harivarasanam hymn? What privileges justify such special treatment at the expense of other devotees?”
The criticism arose while examining a report submitted by the Devaswom Executive Officer regarding VIP visits to the Sannidhanam during the ongoing Mandala-Makaravilakku festival.
The report disclosed that on December 5, Dileep, Alappuzha District Judge K.K. Radhakrishnan, NORKA Roots officer K.P. Anilkumar, and their companions were escorted to the Sopanam by the police. Although Dileep and the VIPs received direct darshan, their associates were redirected through the general queue. Devaswom guards Biju Bose and Shine T. Raj were identified as handling the first line during the incident.
The court criticized the Devaswom officials for extending similar preferential treatment to the judge and the NORKA Roots officer. It directed the TDB to implement measures ensuring fair access to darshan for all pilgrims, especially children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities, during the festival season. Additionally, the Sopanam crowd management officer was ordered to file a detailed report on the matter.
During the hearing, the government pleader informed the court that explanations had been sought from the responsible officers. The court has requested the TDB to submit CCTV footage of the VIP visit for review on Saturday.
Further action will be taken after examining the responses and evidence.
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