The Kerala government's decision to revive the 'Punyam Poonkavanam' project in Sabarimala faces intense scrutiny for potentially breaching a Kerala High Court mandate regarding the project's scope and naming.

Key Takeaways

  • The Kerala government has permitted the resumption of the 'Punyam Poonkavanam' project.
  • The High Court had previously restricted the use of the project's name in relation to Sabarimala activities.
  • Additional DGP P. Vijayan has been cleared of all misconduct allegations by the state.
  • The project faced allegations of unauthorized fund collection and exceeding police mandates.

The Kerala government is reportedly walking a thin line of legality by permitting the restoration of the 'Punyam Poonkavanam' project at Sabarimala. This move has raised alarms among judicial sources, who suggest it may constitute a direct violation of a Kerala High Court order issued in February 2025.

While the state government exonerated Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) P. Vijayan of all allegations, labeling the project an "exemplary community initiative," the decision stands in stark contrast to previous judicial directives. The High Court had explicitly instructed the Travancore Devaswom Board and the Kerala Police to advise pilgrims that the project is not part of the official Police Bandobast Scheme and that its name should not be used for activities connected to the shrine.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the intersection of religious administration, police authority, and private funding creates a complex legal minefield. By reviving a project that was specifically curtailed by the judiciary, the state risks a significant contempt of court proceeding, which could undermine the authority of the High Court in matters of temple administration.

The tension between administrative discretion and judicial oversight is reaching a boiling point in the Sabarimala management discourse.

The controversy stems from an inquiry report suggesting that project coordinators solicited funds from private entities, operating outside the official scope of the State Police. The report even raised suspicions regarding the use of funds for international travel by certain involved officers, though the government has dismissed these concerns regarding P. Vijayan.

Historical Background

The 'Punyam Poonkavanam' scheme was designed to maintain cleanliness around the Sabarimala Sannidhanam and Pampa river through devotee participation. However, during the 2023-24 Mandalam-Makaravilakku season, it became embroiled in allegations of unauthorized financial transactions and misuse of the police banner, leading to strict judicial intervention.

Did You Know?: The Sabarimala temple is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India, attracting millions of devotees annually.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What was the specific High Court directive?
The court ordered that the project must not be presented as part of the police bandobast and its name cannot be linked to Sabarimala-related activities.

2. Has the government taken action against the inquiry officers?
The government has cleared P. Vijayan, but judicial sources suggest that if the previous inquiry report is deemed baseless, legal action could be taken against the reporting officer under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.