High court governs key Sabarimala decisions: Devaswom minister

Thiruvananthapuram: Devaswom minister K Muraleedharan said key decisions relating to administration of Sabarimala temple are taken in accordance with directions of high court, with both state govt and Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) acting on judicial orders.Responding to questions in assembly, the minister said high court’s directions had, on several occasions, differed from decisions of TDB and govt.“Even decisions on the manner in which pilgrims offer worship at Sabarimala are guided by high court. Neither govt nor TDB takes such decisions independently. Everything is implemented as per court directions,” he said.Muraleedharan said govt has refrained from commenting on such matters out of respect for judiciary.

At the same time, he assured the House that all efforts would be made to strengthen infrastructure and improve pilgrim amenities at Nilakkal under Sabarimala Master Plan, taking into account needs of devotees.The minister said preparations for upcoming pilgrimage season had begun well in advance to ensure smooth crowd management and a hassle-free pilgrimage. As part of the arrangements, TDB has convened a coordination meeting of all stakeholder departments on July 9.

On SIT probe into the alleged Sabarimala gold loss case, Muraleedharan declined to comment, stating that investigation is being conducted under high court’s supervision. “Govt will present its stand before court, if required, after the investigating agency files final chargesheet,” he said.Muraleedharan also defended appointment of K B Pradeep as devaswom special prosecutor despite criticism over his earlier appearance on behalf of a firm accused in Sabarimala gold loss case.Describing Pradeep as an eminent criminal lawyer, the minister said he had been appointed with the expectation that he would ensure justice in the cases entrusted to him. However, Pradeep subsequently resigned after his appointment triggered a controversy.