Process to select 'melsanthis' must be changed : Observer

Kochi, Oct 23 (UNI) Retired Judge K Padmanabhan Nair, the Kerala High Court-appointed observer to select 'melsanthis' at Sabarimala and Malikappuram, today submitted a report to it recommending that the present selection process be changed.

In his report to the court, he made it clear there were allegations that the post of a 'melsanthishi' in both the temples could be obtained by paying bribes. The system of selecting one among nine through lots should be stopped.

The report also stated that the 'melsanthis' should be selected on the basis of a written exam and interview, and the candidate getting the first rank should be selected.

The report says that Travancore Devaswom Board president and its members should not be part of the selection committee.

UNI XR MA/VK AM SB HT1932