BJP slams government for 'restricting' pooram festivities

Thiruvananthapuram, April 14: Kerala BJP on Thursday, April 14 alleged that the Congress-led UDF government was trying to put an end to the famous Thrissur Pooram by bringing various restrictions on the annual celebrations of the temple festival.

BJP state president Kummanam Rajasekharan said the Thrissur event, considered to be the pooram (festival) of all poorams, brings out not only culture and traditions of the town but that of entire Kerala. He said UNESCO had also recognised the Thrissur Pooram as one of the best festivals in the world.

The state administration's action in imposing restrictions on the pooram festival in the light of the Kollam fireworks tragedy, was very "unfortunate", he said.

The Puttingal Devi temple tragedy had occurred due to lack of proper policies and due to inefficiency of officials, he charged.

There was no need to ban fireworks and parading of elephants, which were part of the festivals, he said, adding, if necessary safety mechanism can be put in place.

PTI