Kerala: Puja to scare away ghosts!

Kasaragod (Ker), Nov 25: Controversy is brewing over a puja held at the state bus terminus depot in this northern most district of Kerala with allegations that the ritual was held allegedly to drive away evil spirits.

Visuals of the puja, held reportedly on October 22 at the Kerala State Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus depot here, were aired by television channels today.

With the issue becoming controversial, Antony Chacko, Chairman and Managing Director, KSRTC, told PTI that Executive Director (Vigilance) has been asked to inquire and report immediately so that "if any unusual ritual to scare away evil spirits has been held, we will take action".

He said only Ayudha Puja was held. The ritual was "not sponsored by the Corporation" and was performed by employees during Ayudha Puja. We cannot stop the ritual".

When pointed that District Transport Officer was also present, he said normally during the puja, all employees do participate. A KSRTC employee said the puja was held in the presence of the District Transport Officer.

It was held as there was a feeling that frequent road accidents were due to the presence of "ghosts in the terminus. He said the ritual was held in the presence of an astrologer and was not part of Ayudha Puja.

PTI