BJP seeks probe into 'Aravana' issue

Pathanamthitta, Nov 22 (UNI) BJP State President P K Krishnadas today demanded a probe into the role played by the Travancore Devaswom Board Members and the CPI(M) in the 'Aravana' issue at Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa Temple.

Talking to reporters at Sabarimala Sannidhanam, he described the ''lackadaisical attitude'' by the Devaswom Board towards arrangements for the annual pilgrimage season as a 'political conspiracy.' He alleged the CPI(M) cadre were interfering with the day-to-day affairs at Sabarimala. The claim of Devaswom Minister G Sudhakaran that the new Devaswom Act was aimed at eradicating corruption, had proved hollow.

Mr Krishnadas said the increase in the number of Devaswom Board members would never improve the efficiency of the Board.

His party would take out a march towards Pathanamthitta Devaswom Deputy Commissioner's Office on December seven to protest the lukewarm approach to Sabarimala.

Mr Krishnadas called for sufficient production of 'Aravana,' without lowering the quality of the main 'Prasadam' at Sabarimala.

He emphasised that temple administration should be entrusted to believers. To mitigate the hardships experienced by Ayyappa devotees, short and long-term projects should be drawn up.

In the wake of bomb threat, security at Pampa and Sabarimala should be tightened, Mr Krishnadas added.

UNI